In recent years, the frequency and intensity of brush fires have been increasing across urban and suburban areas, raising concerns about their environmental and societal impacts. The rising frequency of brush fires in New York City, particularly during the fall of 2024, highlights a growing environmental concern linked to changing weather patterns. From October 29 to November 12, 2024, the FDNY responded to 229 brush fires across the city, marking the highest number recorded within two weeks (FDNY). These events drew our attention to the factors contributing to fire risk, specifically focusing on weather conditions such as temperature and precipitation.
A brush fire is an uncontrolled fire that spreads across areas with dry grass, shrubs, or bushes, often in rural or suburban environments. These fires are typically caused by a combination of dry weather conditions, high temperatures, and human activities discarded cigarettes, fireworks, or sparks from machinery (Simon, Science.Howstuffworks.com). Brush fires are affected by a combination of weather conditions and vegetation types. Rising temperatures, coupled with fluctuating and sometimes declining precipitation levels, can create conditions conducive to wildfires by drying out vegetation and reducing soil moisture. These climatic trends, driven by global climate change, are expected to exacerbate fire risks in many regions. Brush fires can spread quickly, and pose significant risks to homes, wildlife, and natural landscapes. The fire’s intensity increases when vegetation is dry and highly flammable due to prolonged periods of low rainfall (United Nations Environment Programme)
Our study investigates the relationship between specific weather conditions—temperature and precipitation—and vegetation types in Wanaque, New Jersey, and Central Park, New York. By analyzing data from 2000 to 2024, we aim to understand and explore how these factors contribute to brush fire frequency and intensity and to identify implications for fire management and climate adaptation strategies in these regions.