Context:
A global study published in the Earth System Science Data journal warn that the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves and droughts—driven by climate change—are exacerbating wildfire risks worldwide.
Key Findings
Global Scale and Carbon Emissions:
- Globally, wildfires burned an area of approximately 3.7 million square kilometers, an expanse larger than India.
- Carbon dioxide emissions from these fires exceeded 8 billion tonnes, about 10% above the average since 2003.
- Around 100 million people worldwide were exposed to wildfire smoke, with about USD 215 billion worth of homes and infrastructure at risk.
Country-wise Wildfire Exposure:
- India tops the list with USD 44 billion worth of infrastructure exposed, followed by the United States (USD 26 billion) and China (USD 17 billion).India and the Democratic Republic of the Congo show the highest numbers, with around 15 million people affected in each.
India’s Vulnerability and Exposure:
- Uttar Pradesh had the highest population exposure with 4.6 million people, followed by Punjab with 3.5 million affected, largely due to crop stubble burning, heatwaves, and dry fuels.
- Regional fires contributed to severe haze episodes in New Delhi where PM2.5 levels peaked at over 200 micrograms per cubic meter, 13 times above the WHO safe limit during November 2024.