Wildfires in Los Angeles raise concerns about fire risks in Maine’s changing climate
Los Angeles: Right now, flames are tearing through Los Angeles, fueled by strong winds and dry land. It’s a scary sight, and it makes you wonder if Maine could face something similar.
Back in late October 1947, Maine experienced wildfires that devastated the state. It was a disaster that left a lasting mark. Thousands of volunteers teamed up with firefighters, battling the flames with whatever they had—shovels and hand-pump water canisters. In the end, over 200,000 acres were scorched, 900 homes were lost, and 16 lives were taken.
So, could it happen again? Experts say there’s always a risk, especially during dry spells. But thanks to better firefighting tech and woodland management, the chances of a repeat disaster like 1947 are lower now. Maine’s climate is different from the West, where fires spread more easily.
In 1947, a bad mix of drought and high winds created the perfect storm for wildfires. Kent Nelson, a retired forest ranger, pointed out that fallen timber from a hurricane years earlier added fuel to the fire. He warns that while we’ve improved, the risk remains, especially with climate change causing more extreme weather.
Sean Birkel, a state climatologist, noted that Maine is generally humid, making large fires less likely than in drier areas. However, he mentioned that we’ve seen more wildfires during drought years, like in 2020. As the climate warms, we might face more intense wet and dry periods.
In the spring of 1947, Maine was soaked with rain, but by fall, it was bone dry. On October 20, small fires were popping up all over. The next day, strong winds spread those fires, forcing families to flee. In Kennebunkport, people had to jump into the water to escape as their homes burned.
On Mount Desert Island, a fire started on October 17 and quickly got out of control. Firefighters from all over rushed in, but it took a week to get it under control. By the time the rain came, over 200,000 acres were burned, including a huge chunk of York County.
After the 1947 fires, Maine made big changes in how it prepares for wildfires. Local fire departments upgraded their gear, and new fire departments were formed. Congress even created a compact for New England states to help each other during forest fires.
Amanda Pollock from Acadia National Park said they learned a lot from the 1947 disaster. Now, they work closely with the Maine Forest Service to access resources like helicopters for quick fire suppression. They also focus on preventing fires by managing the forest health.
Ivan Fernandez from the Maine Climate Council pointed out that while Maine isn’t as fire-prone as California, it still faces risks. The climate is changing, leading to drier conditions during droughts. He noted that less snow in winter can mean drier springs and summers, which could spark fires.
In recent years, drought conditions have raised wildfire risks across New England. Joe Mints from the Maine Forest Service said they’re better equipped to find and put out fires quickly now. They also educate homeowners on how to create defensible spaces around their properties.
But even with all these improvements, fires can still happen. Mints reminds us that while local efforts help reduce the risk, the potential for wildfires is always there.
