Climate Impact Company has reported that NOAA has updated its wildland fire forecast for September and October 2025.
France wildfires burn 16,000 hectares as military deployed
Thousands displaced by wildfires in southern France
A wildfire in the Aude region of southern France has destroyed over 16,000 hectares of land.
The BBC and Associated Press reported that the fire began near the village of La Ribaute and has become the country’s largest wildfire since 1949.
Emergency services have confirmed one fatality, 13 injuries, and the displacement of thousands of residents.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau confirmed that over 2,100 firefighters are currently deployed, with military reinforcements scheduled to arrive.
President Emmanuel Macron announced via social media that all national resources were being mobilised and urged the public to exercise caution.
Fire spreads across rural villages amid severe weather conditions
The fire began on Tuesday and spread rapidly due to high winds, extreme heat and long-term drought in the region.
According to the BBC, affected areas include the villages of Lagrasse, Fabrezan, Tournissan, Coustouge and Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse.
Lucie Roesch, secretary general of the Aude prefecture, told AFP that the situation “remains unfavourable” due to weather conditions and the dry landscape.
At least 25 homes have been destroyed, 2,500 households lost electricity, and two campgrounds were evacuated.
Authorities reported that the fire has affected an area larger than Paris, with smoke plumes visible from space according to Météo-France.
Emergency shelters open as displacement rises
The BBC reported that 17 emergency accommodation sites have been established to house people evacuated from affected areas.
The mayor of Jonquières, Jacques Piraud, told Le Monde that 80 percent of his village had been destroyed.
Piraud said: “It’s dramatic. It’s black, the trees are completely charred.”
Residents have been instructed not to return to their homes until further notice, while road access has been restricted or reopened based on safety assessments.
Local officials noted that recent removal of vineyards – previously natural firebreaks – has worsened the region’s vulnerability.
National response includes military support and satellite monitoring
According to the Associated Press, France’s military has been called in to support exhausted firefighting crews, with deployment scheduled from Thursday.
Prime Minister François Bayrou visited the region to express “national solidarity” and stated that the situation was “a disaster on an unprecedented scale.”
Firefighter spokesperson Eric Brocardi told RTL radio: “This is a disaster of unprecedented scale.”
Satellite imagery shared by Météo-France showed smoke clouds reaching high into the atmosphere, visible from orbit.
The Environment Ministry said water use restrictions were already in place due to drought before the fire began.
Climate risks and economic impact highlighted by authorities
The Environment Ministry attributed the fire’s rapid spread to extended drought and warned that water scarcity may continue to affect response efforts.
According to the Associated Press, the French government is investigating the cause of the fire while also reviewing its impact on local agriculture and tourism.
The EU’s Copernicus Climate Change Service said Europe has warmed at twice the global average since the 1980s.
Scientists cited in the AP report warned that such conditions will likely increase the frequency and severity of wildfires in the Mediterranean.
The incident has prompted renewed debate in France over long-term climate adaptation and regional fire preparedness.
France wildfires burn 16,000 hectares as military deployed: Summary
A wildfire in southern France has destroyed more than 16,000 hectares of land.
The fire began near La Ribaute in the Aude region on Tuesday.
The BBC and Associated Press reported that one person has died and 13 others have been injured.
Over 2,100 firefighters are on the ground, supported by water-bombing aircraft.
France’s military has been deployed to assist emergency services.
Thousands of residents have been evacuated from nearby villages.
Seventeen emergency shelters have been opened for displaced people.
At least 25 homes and two campgrounds have been damaged or destroyed.
Smoke clouds are visible from space according to Météo-France.
President Emmanuel Macron stated that national resources have been mobilised.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau confirmed that soldiers will arrive Thursday.
Authorities say this is the largest wildfire in France since 1949.
The Environment Ministry linked the fire to ongoing drought conditions.
Local mayors report widespread damage to villages and vineyards.
The fire has disrupted the region’s wine production and tourism sector.
The EU’s climate service stated that Europe is warming faster than the global average.
National fire preparedness level raised in United States
Fire preparedness level raised due to peak season conditions
The US Department of Agriculture has confirmed that the National Multi-Agency Coordination Group (NMAC) increased the United States’ national fire preparedness level to Level 4 on Saturday 13 July 2025.
According to the department, the change reflects a combination of elevated wildfire risk, increased fire activity and the rising demand for firefighting resources across the country.
The five-tier preparedness scale is managed by wildland fire representatives based at the National Interagency Fire Center in Idaho.
Preparedness Level 4 indicates a high number of large fires and a significant commitment of national firefighting resources, but still allows flexibility in resource deployment.
As of 14 July, the USDA said the US Forest Service’s fire workforce was 99% staffed, with full coverage expected the following week.
USDA outlines staffing and resource levels for 2025
The USDA said it had made fire response a departmental priority for the 2025 summer fire season.
According to the agency, the Forest Service has nearly completed its seasonal hiring goal, with 11,300 wildland firefighters expected to be in place by mid-July.
This staffing level is reportedly ahead of previous years, and the USDA said the workforce is fully operational.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins said: “We are providing the resources needed to ensure the U.S. Forest Service has the strongest and most prepared wildland firefighting force in the world.”
Preparedness Level 4 increases the demand for incident management teams, fire crews, engines, helicopters, airtankers and support equipment such as bulldozers.
Rollins announces policy direction and criticism of restrictions
USDA Secretary Rollins said the department was not waiting passively for fire events to occur, and outlined actions being taken to support fire response and forest management.
She said: “We are in peak fire season and are rightfully raising the preparedness level to ensure we are protecting our public lands and communities from devastating fires. President Trump, Secretary Burgum, and our State, local, and Tribal partners are prepared to respond.”
Rollins continued: “At USDA we are not simply waiting for fire season. We have instituted a series of federal actions and partnerships to properly manage national forestlands.”
She added: “For too long, environmental activists have tied the hands of our public servants from actively managing our forests – and even blocking simple road construction so fire vehicles, apparatus, and staff can get to wildfires and put them out before they destroy homes and communities.”
She concluded: “We have begun the process to rescind the failed roadless rule to fix this with common sense policies and have declared a national forest emergency so we can clear out dangerous fuel and protect our forests for the future.”
Public agencies coordinate wildfire response through NIFC
The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) in Boise, Idaho, serves as the headquarters for multi-agency wildfire coordination in the United States.
It hosts representatives from each wildland fire agency, who collaborate through the National Multi-Agency Coordination Group (NMAC) to assess risks and allocate national resources.
Each preparedness level includes specific management actions, with Level 4 requiring increased national-level coordination and interagency support.
The USDA confirmed that weather conditions, fuel availability, and the number of large active fires were key factors in the preparedness level change.
Wildland firefighting resources coordinated through NIFC include ground crews, aircraft, heavy machinery and logistics support.
Public asked to support prevention during summer season
The USDA has reminded the public to take responsibility when visiting wildland areas during the summer months.
It stated that outdoor recreation should be conducted with care to prevent avoidable fire incidents and reduce the burden on emergency responders.
The department said that even small missteps can endanger firefighting personnel and stretch national response capacity.
For more information and guidance, the USDA has directed individuals to consult the NIFC website.
No additional restrictions or area closures have been announced in conjunction with the preparedness level change.
National fire preparedness level raised in United States: Summary
The US Department of Agriculture has confirmed that the United States fire preparedness level has been raised to Level 4.
The announcement was made by the National Multi-Agency Coordination Group on 13 July 2025.
Preparedness Level 4 indicates increased fire activity and high resource use.
The USDA said the US Forest Service has reached 99% of its firefighter staffing target.
Full staffing of 11,300 wildland firefighters is expected within a week.
Preparedness levels are based on fuel, weather, fire activity and resource availability.
Secretary Rollins said the USDA is implementing forest management policies.
She criticised previous restrictions on access and land management.
Level 4 increases demand for interagency coordination and national resources.
The USDA said the public should act responsibly when outdoors.
The NIFC website has been listed as a source for further information.
Aircraft, ground crews and heavy equipment are being deployed nationally.
The USDA said no new area closures were included in the announcement.
All statements were attributed to the US Department of Agriculture.
Integrated wildfire strategy launched to address growing risk in Europe
EU meeting proposes continent-wide wildfire strategy
Over 150 wildfire specialists met in Brussels to present a draft strategy to address increasing wildfire risks in Europe.
According to UCP Knowledge Network, the Integrated Wildfire Risk Management (IWRM) Strategy was presented at a two-day event organised by the Firelogue coordination project in cooperation with the EU Research Executive Agency.
The event was supported by four EU Green Deal projects – FirEUrisk, FIRE-RES, SILVANUS, and TREEADS – which have spent the past four years identifying weaknesses in European wildfire risk management.
The strategy proposes a move from reactive national responses to a long-term, coordinated approach across the continent.
Organisers stated that climate change has altered the frequency and distribution of wildfires in Europe, making a shared, systemic approach necessary.
Focus on civil protection and landscape resilience
The IWRM Strategy is intended to support the objectives of the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, with a particular emphasis on integrating emergency response, land management, public engagement, and digital infrastructure.
UCP Knowledge Network reported that wildfires are increasingly affecting parts of central and northern Europe, beyond the traditionally affected southern regions.
The proposal recommends that national systems shift from treating wildfires as seasonal events to seeing them as continuous governance challenges.
It also calls for stronger investment in local-level civil protection to enable authorities to apply preventative measures in vulnerable areas.
A central theme of the Brussels discussions was the need for wildfire governance to cross administrative and sectoral boundaries.
Turning research into operational tools
The IWRM Strategy includes tools developed through pilot projects and research programmes, including drones, risk modelling platforms, and apps to support field teams.
At the event, Firelogue demonstrated a virtual reality module for firefighter training that simulates wildfire response scenarios.
According to the organisers, these tools are designed to be immediately useful to civil protection agencies.
However, it was also stated that technical innovation must be accompanied by adequate training, funding, and inclusion in decision-making structures.
Speakers pointed to Fire Forums as a format for cross-sector engagement between scientists, responders, and decision-makers, particularly in areas with limited resources.
Stakeholder alignment and implementation planning
The closing roundtable featured representatives from DG ECHO, DG Environment, the Joint Research Centre, and the World Bank.
According to UCP Knowledge Network, the discussion focused on aligning the IWRM Strategy with existing EU programmes and addressing legal or institutional changes needed for implementation.
Participants stressed that the success of the strategy depends on coordination across sectors and levels of governance.
Suggestions included education initiatives, improved coordination between countries, and formal mechanisms for knowledge sharing between regions.
The panel agreed that while the strategy provides a structure, effective implementation will depend on political and institutional follow-through.
Strategy aims to make Europe wildfire resilient
UCP Knowledge Network reported that the strategy aims to address wildfires as an accelerating outcome of climate change.
Speakers at the event stressed that civil protection systems must be central to wildfire adaptation planning across Europe.
The strategy proposal sets out a direction for EU-level and national alignment but will require legislative and policy action to become formalised.
Organisers concluded that moving forward requires joint work between Commission services, Member States, and local agencies.
The strategy is not binding but is intended as a reference point for future EU wildfire governance.
Integrated wildfire strategy launched to address growing risk in Europe: Summary
Over 150 wildfire experts met in Brussels in June 2025 to launch a strategy for Europe-wide wildfire risk management.
The event was hosted by the Firelogue coordination project and the EU Research Executive Agency.
Support came from four European Green Deal projects: FirEUrisk, FIRE-RES, SILVANUS, and TREEADS.
The proposed Integrated Wildfire Risk Management (IWRM) Strategy seeks to coordinate science, policy, and operations.
The proposal recommends shifting from national, seasonal responses to cross-border, year-round systems.
The strategy supports EU Civil Protection Mechanism goals and local implementation capabilities.
Technologies showcased include virtual-reality training and mobile tools for fire services.
Speakers called for investment in training and decision-making integration.
Fire Forums were highlighted as a method for cross-sector dialogue and capacity-building.
A closing panel included officials from the European Commission and World Bank.
The discussion addressed legal, institutional, and funding needs for implementation.
The strategy has not yet been adopted but serves as a draft framework.
Further collaboration between EU institutions and Member States is required.
Organisers said the strategy responds to fire risks made worse by climate change.
The proposal frames wildfires as a long-term, systemic challenge for European civil protection.
Federal wildland firefighting reorganisation raises safety concerns
Firefighting realignment ordered by Trump administration
President Donald Trump has signed an order to merge wildland firefighting responsibilities under a new Federal Wildland Fire Service, according to AP News.
The order would centralise firefighting duties currently distributed across five federal agencies and two Cabinet departments.
The new service would be housed within the US Department of the Interior, with roles and staff transferred from the US Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service.
AP News reported that the reorganisation comes despite warnings from former federal officials and firefighter groups who say it could disrupt fire season operations and increase risks.
No cost or savings estimates have been provided, and the plan takes effect while the 2025 fire season is already active across parts of the United States.
Federal agencies impacted by planned restructuring
According to AP News, Trump’s proposal would shift the majority of personnel from the Forest Service to the new Interior-based firefighting service.
The Forest Service currently employs most federal wildland firefighters in the United States.
Critics, including several former Forest Service chiefs, said the transition could delay response efforts and undermine fire prevention work.
In a letter to lawmakers, they wrote that consolidating firefighting under one agency could “actually increase the likelihood of more large catastrophic fires, putting more communities, firefighters and resources at risk.”
The AP reported that more than 65,000 wildfires burned nearly 9 million acres of land in the US last year.
The Trump administration has previously reduced federal support for wildfire prevention and staffing, and this new change revives similar concerns about resource gaps.
Concerns raised over fire prevention and climate impacts
The presidential order did not mention climate change, despite scientists linking increased wildfire activity to higher temperatures and prolonged drought conditions.
The Center for Western Priorities, an advocacy group critical of the order, described the move as “madness.”
Aaron Weiss, deputy director of the group, said: “If President Trump was serious about improving the nation’s wildland firefighting capabilities, he would stop hollowing out the agencies tasked with fighting wildfires.”
Experts cited by AP News noted that centralisation may prioritise suppression over prevention, which could worsen conditions in areas with dense vegetation or declining forest health.
Environmentalists also pointed to other recent actions by the administration, including changes to logging regulations across US forests, as contributing to increased risk.
Political support and commercial ties
AP News reported that bipartisan legislation proposing a similar restructuring is currently under consideration.
The bill is backed by California Senator Alex Padilla and Montana Senator Tim Sheehy.
Sheehy, who previously founded an aerial firefighting company that contracts with federal agencies, also sponsored a separate bill signed by Trump that allows the continued sale of military aircraft for wildfire use.
Sheehy said in a statement: “Fighting wildfires more quickly and aggressively is America First common sense.”
Although the consolidation plan has received some legislative backing, several organisations representing firefighters have warned it could lead to higher operational costs and inefficient responses.
Emergency declaration affects wide geographical area
In addition to the order, Trump approved an emergency designation covering 176,000 square miles of forested land.
AP News stated that the affected area spans parts of the western United States, the South, Great Lakes region and New England.
Many of these forests are classified as high-risk due to insect damage, tree disease and prolonged periods without precipitation.
Critics argued that reducing environmental oversight in these areas could worsen conditions.
The US continues to experience above-average temperatures for the season, which federal agencies say may drive another intense year of wildfire activity.
Federal wildland firefighting reorganisation raises safety concerns: Summary
President Donald Trump signed an order consolidating federal wildland firefighting duties.
The new Federal Wildland Fire Service would be created under the Department of the Interior.
Personnel would transfer from the Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service.
The change affects responsibilities spread across five agencies and two Cabinet departments.
AP News reported that no cost or savings estimate has been released.
Fire season is already underway across parts of the United States.
Critics, including former Forest Service chiefs, said the move could increase the risk of large fires.
A letter to lawmakers said consolidation could put communities and resources at greater risk.
The plan was not accompanied by any mention of climate change.
Environmental groups said it would prioritise suppression over prevention.
A similar proposal is backed by Senators Alex Padilla and Tim Sheehy.
Sheehy founded an aerial firefighting company that holds federal contracts.
Trump also signed a law enabling military aircraft sales for firefighting.
An emergency designation now applies to 176,000 square miles of forest land.
Many affected forests are located in western states and face high wildfire risk.
The designation includes areas in the South, Great Lakes and New England.
LIFE and landscape fire project recognised at 2025 LIFE Awards
Nature and climate projects awarded at EU event
Three projects from across Europe have been awarded top honours at the 2025 LIFE Awards, according to the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency.
The awards were presented during European Green Week, recognising efforts to protect biodiversity, promote circular economy models, and increase climate resilience.
Winners were chosen from nine finalists across three categories: nature protection, circular economy and quality of life, and climate action.
LIFE and landscape fire project highlighted as finalist
The European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency reported that the LIFE LANDSCAPE FIRE project, which focuses on forest fire prevention, was named a finalist in the circular economy and quality of life category.
This project applies traditional fire prevention methods alongside newer strategies to reduce the scale and impact of wildfires in Portugal and Spain.
Although the LIFE LANDSCAPE FIRE project did not win its category, it was highlighted alongside two others, with the top prize going to LIFEPOPWAT for piloting a nature-based water decontamination system in Czechia and Poland.
LIFE Lynx project receives dual recognition
According to the agency, the LIFE Award for Nature went to the LIFE Lynx project, which reversed the decline of the Alpine Lynx in the Dinaric Alps by engaging conservationists, hunters and local communities in Slovenia and Croatia.
The project also received the LIFE Citizens’ Prize following an online public vote.
Other finalists in the nature category included LIFEraisedbogs, which restored over 900 hectares of peatland in Denmark, and LIFE living Natura 2000, which focused on awareness in Germany.
Climate award goes to desertification prevention project
The European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency stated that the LIFE Award for Climate Action went to LIFE DESERT-ADAPT.
The project aims to prevent desertification by improving soil health, increasing water retention, and supporting ecosystems across Italy, Spain and Portugal.
Two other projects were recognised in the climate category: NATURAL HVACR 4 LIFE, which developed alternatives to fluorinated gases for air-conditioning, and LIFE Natur’Adapt, which promoted climate adaptation tools in French nature reserves.
Rising Star category introduced for circular economy innovation
The agency introduced a new “Rising Star Recognition” award in 2025 to spotlight emerging contributions to the circular economy.
The inaugural award was given to LIFE RE-ZIP, a Danish project aiming to replace single-use packaging with reusable solutions in eCommerce.
The project is expected to circulate over 120 million reusable packages by its end in 2026, saving 17,000 tonnes of waste and supporting 300 jobs.
Top LIFE Awards 2025 winners announced for nature, circular economy, and climate action: Summary
Three winning projects were announced at the 2025 LIFE Awards during European Green Week.
The awards are managed by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency.
Winners were selected across three categories: nature, circular economy and quality of life, and climate action.
The LIFE Lynx project in Slovenia and Croatia received both the nature award and the Citizens’ Prize.
LIFEPOPWAT won in the circular economy and quality of life category.
LIFE LANDSCAPE FIRE, focused on wildfire prevention in Portugal and Spain, was a finalist in that category.
LIFE DESERT-ADAPT received the award for climate action.
A new Rising Star Recognition was awarded to LIFE RE-ZIP, a Danish packaging reuse initiative.
LIFE Awards are part of the LIFE Programme, the EU’s environmental funding instrument.
Over 6,000 projects have been funded under LIFE since 1992.
The LIFE Programme budget for 2025–2027 is €2.3 billion.
Image credit: LIFE_LANDSCAPE_FIRE_2 © LIFE18 ENV_PT_000361 – All rights reserved. Licensed to the European Union under conditions
Vietnam forest fire response highlights community engagement gaps
Forest fires damage special-use forests in Vietnam
Forest fires during the late dry season have affected large areas of forest in Vietnam’s mountainous provinces, according to Thai Nguyen.
The damage includes both production forests and special-use forests, with more than 10 hectares of special-use forest destroyed in one incident.
Local authorities said that community fire response efforts focused mainly on production forests owned by local residents, while support for state-managed areas was limited.
Questions raised over collective response in special-use forests
According to Thai Nguyen, concerns have been raised about the lack of coordinated community response when fires occur in protected or special-use forests.
In one commune, residents from the immediate area helped extinguish the fire, but there was no response from nearby communes.
Authorities explained that some neighbouring residents were unaware the fire had occurred and were preoccupied with personal farming and business activities.
The report stated that when fire fighting relies only on those directly affected, protective efforts become inconsistent and delayed.
Local authorities advocate for more public training
Thai Nguyen reported that provincial authorities are recommending an increase in public training for forest fire prevention and control.
Local officials noted that many residents lack sufficient awareness and practical skills to act quickly in the event of a forest fire.
The authorities added that expanding fire drills and public education programmes may improve early intervention in future incidents.
It was stated that more consistent and widespread training could help develop faster and more uniform fire response across communes.
Call for shared responsibility in forest protection
The article from Thai Nguyen highlighted the ecological importance of protected and special-use forests and the need for collective responsibility.
It noted that these forest areas play a role in conserving land and water, with long-term environmental implications if lost.
Officials said that broader community engagement is necessary to manage the threat effectively and that forests should be seen as a shared asset, not solely a local concern.
It was concluded that without joint ownership and involvement, the success of fire prevention strategies would remain limited.
Vietnam forest fire response highlights community engagement gaps: Summary
Forest fires occurred in Vietnam’s mountainous provinces during the late dry season.
The affected areas included production forests and special-use forests.
Over 10 hectares of special-use forest were damaged in one commune.
Local people helped extinguish the fires in their own areas.
Neighbouring communes did not participate in suppression efforts.
Some residents were unaware of the nearby forest fire.
Local authorities said that more public training is needed.
They proposed more drills and educational programmes.
Authorities stated that forest protection requires district-wide participation.
They said shared responsibility is needed for effective fire response.
Moorland rewetting efforts slow wildfire damage in Derbyshire
Wildfire response supported by restoration projects in Peak District
According to the BBC, a recent wildfire in the Goyt Valley caused damage equivalent to around 325 football pitches.
The fire, which broke out on 30 April in the Peak District, affected upland moorland in Derbyshire.
Environmental organisation Moors for the Future Partnership said that existing restoration measures helped reduce the spread of the fire.
The organisation had installed a series of small dams over the past two years as part of a rewetting initiative to improve moorland resilience.
Conservation work officer Jim Randle said the presence of additional surface water may have limited the fire’s ability to burn deeply into the peat.
He said: “There are many, many areas where we have put in dams that were holding water that would not have otherwise been there.”
Fire damage restricted to valley zone
The BBC reported that the fire was largely contained within the Goyt Valley and did not reach open moorland between Buxton and Macclesfield.
The Moors for the Future Partnership said its work to block gullies and restore vegetation cover likely contributed to the reduced impact.
The partnership is led by the Peak District National Park Authority and is supported by multiple funders including the Environment Agency and the National Trust.
Randle added: “The fire may well have been worse and buried deeply into the peat in some areas [if it had not been for the dams].”
Recovery expected to take several years
Despite the containment of the fire, the environmental impact will be long-lasting.
Randle explained that the regeneration process would take years, even in areas where mitigation efforts were successful.
He said: “It is grief almost because you know how important this place is to people.”
“It is a very popular spot for lots of people.”
United Utilities, which owns reservoirs and surrounding land in the valley, also commented on the aftermath.
Catchment officer Ed Lawrance said: “It is just an incredibly sad situation.”
Fire service highlights prevention benefits
A spokesperson for Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service told the BBC that the fire service supports the moorland regeneration efforts.
The spokesperson said: “This vital work to restore the moors includes re-wetting which can help to reduce the risk and severity of wildfires.”
Lawrance added: “We have seen them before, these big moorland fires, and know how devastating they are for the wildlife and the habitat up here, for the people who visit, for the people who work and manage this area.”
“So it is always an awful experience when we get a big wildfire like this.”
Moorland rewetting efforts slow wildfire damage in Derbyshire: Summary
A wildfire broke out in the Goyt Valley, Derbyshire on 30 April.
The affected area was roughly the size of 325 football pitches.
The Moors for the Future Partnership had installed small water dams on the moorland.
These dams were part of a restoration project aimed at rewetting the landscape.
Jim Randle of Moors for the Future said the water helped reduce how deeply the fire burned into peat.
The fire remained contained within the Goyt Valley and did not spread to wider moorland.
The Peak District National Park Authority leads the partnership responsible for the restoration work.
United Utilities owns the land surrounding the reservoirs in the valley.
Ed Lawrance from United Utilities described the fire as “devastating”.
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service stated the rewetting work may help lower wildfire risks.
Full recovery of the area is expected to take years.
Global forest loss 2024: Tropical forest loss doubles as fire becomes main cause
Fires surpass agriculture as leading cause of forest loss
World Resources Institute has reported that global forest loss rose to its highest level on record in 2024, with fire overtaking agriculture as the main cause of tropical primary forest destruction.
The data, published by the University of Maryland’s GLAD Lab on WRI’s Global Forest Watch platform, showed 6.7 million hectares of tropical primary forest were lost, nearly double the previous year’s total.
WRI stated that fire accounted for nearly 50% of all tropical primary forest loss, while other causes rose by 14%, marking the sharpest increase since 2016.
The organisation added that forest fires in 2024 emitted 4.1 gigatonnes of greenhouse gases, over four times the emissions from all global air travel in 2023.
Elizabeth Goldman, Co-Director, WRI’s Global Forest Watch said: “This level of forest loss is unlike anything we’ve seen in over 20 years of data.
“It’s a global red alert — a collective call to action for every country, every business and every person who cares about a livable planet.
“Our economies, our communities, our health — none of it can survive without forests.”
Brazil and Bolivia record largest increases in tropical forest loss
World Resources Institute reported that Brazil accounted for 42% of tropical primary forest loss in 2024.
It stated that 66% of Brazil’s forest loss was due to fires, which were intensified by the worst drought in the country’s recorded history.
The organisation added that forest loss from non-fire causes rose by 13%, largely linked to soy and cattle farming.
In Bolivia, WRI reported that primary forest loss rose by 200%, reaching 1.5 million hectares.
It noted that Bolivia became the second-highest country for tropical primary forest loss, overtaking the Democratic Republic of Congo despite having less than half its forest area.
More than half of Bolivia’s loss was caused by fires often linked to agricultural clearing, which escalated into megafires due to drought.
Stasiek Czaplicki Cabezas, Data Journalist at Revista Nomadas said: “The fires that tore through Bolivia in 2024 left deep scars — not only on the land, but on the people who depend on it.
“The damage could take centuries to undo.
“Across the tropics, we need stronger fire response systems and a shift away from policies that encourage dangerous land clearing, or this pattern of destruction will only get worse.”
Forest loss in Colombia and Congo Basin linked to conflict and climate
World Resources Institute stated that Colombia experienced a 50% increase in primary forest loss in 2024.
It reported that fires were not the primary cause. Instead, non-fire-related loss rose by 53%, attributed to instability following the breakdown in peace negotiations and an increase in illegal mining and coca production.
Joaquin Carrizosa, Senior Advisor, WRI Colombia said: “In 2023, Colombia saw the biggest drop in primary forest loss in 20 years, proving that when government and communities work together, real change is possible.”
Carrizosa added: “The rise in primary forest loss in 2024 is a setback, but it shouldn’t discourage us as a country.
“We need to keep supporting local, nature-based economies – especially in remote areas – and invest in solutions that protect the environment, create jobs and foster peace.”
In the Republic of Congo, WRI reported a 150% increase in forest loss compared to the previous year.
It stated that 45% of that loss was fire-related, driven by high temperatures and dry conditions.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the organisation linked increased forest loss to poverty, dependence on forest resources, and conflict.
Teodyl Nkuintchua, Congo Basin Strategy & Engagement Lead, WRI Africa said: “The high rates of forest loss in the DRC reflect the tough realities our communities are facing — poverty, conflict and a deep reliance on forests for survival.
“There’s no silver bullet, but we won’t change the current trajectory until people across the Congo Basin are fully empowered to lead conservation efforts that also support their rural economies.”
Some progress recorded in Southeast Asia
World Resources Institute reported that Southeast Asia showed improvements in forest loss during 2024.
It stated that Indonesia reduced primary forest loss by 11%, reversing an upward trend seen between 2021 and 2023.
Malaysia recorded a 13% decline in primary forest loss and dropped out of the top 10 countries for tropical forest loss for the first time.
WRI attributed the progress in Indonesia to land restoration policies and fire prevention efforts implemented under former President Joko Widodo.
Arief Wijaya, Managing Director, WRI Indonesia said: “We’re proud that Indonesia is one of the few countries in the world to reduce primary forest loss.
“But deforestation remains a concern due to plantations, small-scale farming and mining — even within protected areas.
“We hope the current administration keeps the momentum going.”
Outside the tropics, the organisation reported a 5% increase in global tree cover loss compared to 2023.
It stated that the combined losses in Canada and Russia contributed to the global total of 30 million hectares of tree cover loss in 2024.
WRI noted that this marked the first time that major fire events occurred simultaneously in both tropical and boreal forests in Global Forest Watch records.
Global forest loss 2024 driven by record fires: Summary
World Resources Institute reported that 2024 recorded the highest tropical primary forest loss on record.
Fire accounted for nearly 50% of the total tropical forest loss.
A total of 6.7 million hectares of tropical primary forest were lost.
Fire-related emissions reached 4.1 gigatonnes of greenhouse gases.
Brazil accounted for 42% of the total, with 66% of its loss caused by fire.
Bolivia recorded a 200% increase, reaching 1.5 million hectares.
Colombia’s forest loss increased by 50%, mainly linked to illegal mining and coca production.
The Republic of Congo’s loss rose by 150%, with 45% caused by fire.
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s increase was attributed to poverty and conflict.
Indonesia reduced forest loss by 11%, and Malaysia by 13%.
Global tree cover loss rose by 5%, totalling 30 million hectares.
All data was sourced from the University of Maryland’s GLAD Lab and published by Global Forest Watch.
US wildland firefighting proposal: Federal restructure raises concerns
US plan to merge fire agencies raises staffing and strategy concerns
AP News has reported that the Trump administration has proposed consolidating wildland firefighting efforts currently spread across five agencies and two Cabinet departments into a single Federal Wildland Fire Service under the U.S. Department of the Interior.
The restructuring would move thousands of personnel, including the majority of federal firefighters from the U.S. Forest Service, into the new agency during an active fire season.
According to AP News, former federal officials and firefighter groups have warned that the plan could increase wildfire risks, lead to service disruption, and shift focus away from prevention strategies such as controlled burns.
Interior Secretary says restructuring would streamline decision-making
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum told the House Appropriations Committee that the proposed change would reduce bureaucracy and improve front-line deployment.
Burgum said: “We want more firefighters on the front lines and less people trying to make manual decisions on how to allocate resources and personnel.”
“We’ve got duplicative and ineffective structures that could be improved.”
The administration is already preparing to coordinate operations between the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture before the legislation is passed.
The restructuring proposal has received some bipartisan support, including from Senator Tim Sheehy (Republican – Montana) and Senator Alex Padilla (Democrat – California).
Former officials warn of increased risk and reduced prevention
According to a letter to lawmakers from the National Association of Forest Service Retirees, the proposed consolidation may raise the risk of large-scale wildfires and weaken preventative fire management practices.
Steve Ellis, the group’s chair and a former wildfire incident commander, said: “You will not suppress your way to success in dealing with catastrophic fires.”
“It’s going to create greater risk and it’s going to be particularly chaotic if you implement it going into fire season.”
Timothy Ingalsbee of Firefighters United for Safety, Ethics and Ecology described the plan as disruptive to existing land management practices.
Ingalsbee said: “Cleaving the Forest Service’s firefighting duties from its role as a land manager would be like separating cojoined twins — it would basically kill the agency.”
Budget cuts, rehires and environmental rollbacks affect workforce
The National Association of Forest Service Retirees and Democratic lawmakers reported that early actions by the administration led to the loss of more than 1,600 firefighters in the Forest Service and hundreds more in Interior agencies.
The Forest Service had about 9,450 wildland firefighters as of 3 May, with a target of 11,300 by mid-July, while Interior employed around 6,700 across four agencies.
State officials in Oregon and Washington raised concerns about reduced federal support ahead of the 2025 fire season.
AP News reported that the Forest Service workforce was cut in February 2025 during wider federal spending reductions.
A court order later required some workers to be rehired following public criticism, though the administration has not disclosed exact numbers.
In April 2025, the Trump administration removed environmental protections for future logging projects across over 176,000 square miles of national forests, including areas classified as high wildfire risk.
U.S. wildland firefighting proposal: Summary
The Trump administration has proposed merging federal wildland firefighting responsibilities into a single agency.
This new Federal Wildland Fire Service would operate under the U.S. Department of the Interior.
The plan involves moving thousands of staff from the U.S. Forest Service and other departments.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that the aim is to improve efficiency and frontline staffing.
The proposal has received support from Senators Tim Sheehy and Alex Padilla.
Organisations including the National Association of Forest Service Retirees oppose the restructure.
Critics argue it will increase wildfire risks and reduce preventative land management.
Over 1,600 firefighters have been lost from the Forest Service since 2021.
The Forest Service aims to increase its workforce to 11,300 by July 2025.
Interior currently employs approximately 6,700 wildland firefighters.
State officials report that federal staffing reductions are affecting wildfire planning.
The administration has not specified the financial impact of the restructuring.
A 2008 Congressional Research Service report raised concerns about similar plans.
Environmental safeguards were rolled back in April 2025 on logging across national forests.
More than 1 million acres have burned in the U.S. in 2025 so far.