Much of the US is in the grip a widespread drought after a very dry winter and start to spring. South-eastern areas, in particular Florida and Georgia, are experiencing some of the worst of this prolonged bout of dry weather, with calls for the risk to be labelled a level 4 “exceptional” drought in the region, the most severe category. In recent days, strong winds and low humidity conditions have brought an increased fire risk. These ingredients combined with such unusually dry ground have led to multiple large wildfires, particularly across Florida, a state known for its wetlands and everglades.
A fire broke out early on Tuesday morning in Broward County, Florida, just north-west of Fort Lauderdale, scorching an area of more than 3,723 hectares (9,200 acres) as of Thursday afternoon. The National Guard helped Broward’s sheriff, fire and rescue service tackle the blaze, 50% of which has since been contained. Residents nearby and farther west have been warned of reduced air quality as a result of travelling smoke. Fires have been breaking out elsewhere, with multiple active blazes across northern Florida, Georgia and into Alabama. Abnormally dry weather is likely to continue over the next few weeks before the arrival of the rainy season, usually around June, with the drought and fire risk expected to last.
In parts of India, a heatwave is anticipated over the coming days as high pressure sits over the north of the country. April to June are considered summer months in northern India, before the onset of monsoon season from July, so while daytime temperatures of about 40C are not uncommon for some areas, the mercury is likely to rise closer to 45C over the weekend and the start of next week. States such as Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra are all expected to experience temperatures above 40C for multiple days, with the India Meteorological Department issuing a heatwave alert for the regions. Some forecasts extend the extreme heat into the first week of May, which would raise health concerns for millions of people.
