Illustration of three fires

Resources

/

Infographics

/

Infographic: How does climate change affect bushfires?

By

Share:

This content is 6 years old.

The catastrophic bushfire season we are currently experiencing in Australia is a clear example of the impacts of climate change playing out before our eyes. This infographic explains how climate change influences bushfires in four ways:

  • A longer fire season. Hotter conditions mean a longer fire season, leading to more dangerous bushfires and leaving less time for hazard reduction.
  • Hotter temperatures. Australia is getting hotter, with more extreme hot days and longer, hotter heatwaves. These conditions are increasing the risk of bushfires in many areas.
  • Drier vegetation & ‘fuel’. Hotter conditions and periods of low rainfall dry out soil and vegetation, increasing fire risk.
  • More lightning. A warmer climate increases the chance of lightning, which is a key factor in starting fires.

DOWNLOAD THE INFOGRAPHIC

Infographic on climate change and bushfires

DOWNLOAD THE INFOGRAPHIC

 

Further Reading

How much space do renewables really need?

Australia is on its way to becoming a renewable super power, with wind and solar farms generating clean electricity in every state and territory. The amount of land required to build renewable energy is a common misconception. The great news is, we don’t actually need that much space to power ourselves with renewables.

Learn more

2024 progress scorecard: How states and territories measure up

Nowhere is our rapid shift towards an economy powered by renewable energy more visible than at the state and territory level, where governments, communities and households are leading the charge. This transformation is dynamic, with different states and territories leading the way on different aspects.

Learn more