The risk of bushfires increases as high temperatures persist and rain fails to materialize – Inklings News

The continued lack of rain and unusually high temperatures in recent weeks have significantly increased the risk of wildfires in Westport and surrounding areas of Connecticut.

Weather conditions since the end of October have been unusually dry, with no recorded precipitation and temperatures reaching the high 70s – unseasonably warm compared to previous falls. That trend continues this week, with temperatures of 75 degrees and no rain forecast for Wednesday. What may have been an anomaly in early November appears to be the norm this fall.

According to the National Weather ServiceThe Westport region typically receives nearly 8 inches of rain in September and October, but this year it received less than 1 inch. October's average high temperature (68 degrees) was nearly 4 degrees above the normal high temperature (64.4). This extended period of warm, dry weather has significantly increased the fire danger across the state and required extreme measures.

On October 26th The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has issued an order limiting outdoor fires. “An emergency fire ban is now in effect…prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, fire pits and campfires, as well as the lighting and use of flames outdoors,” the statement said Wildfire Danger Report specified. “Please note that today's wildfire danger report remains at a 'very high' level.”

While the ongoing dry, warm weather has increased the risk of bushfires and led to fire bans, it has also brought unexpected benefits for autumn sports and activities.

“Since I play soccer and our postseason runs late into November, this warm weather has been very helpful for our continued outdoor practices and games,” said 27-year-old Staples girls soccer player Willa Shamie. “As we move forward, we hope the weather remains similar to what it has been.”