Climate experts say our drought combined with extreme wind conditions is posing extreme fire danger in our bosque.

Climate experts say our drought combined with extreme wind conditions is posing extreme fire danger in our bosque.

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Climate experts say our drought combined with extreme wind conditions is posing extreme fire danger in our bosque.

New Mexico is in the midst of a historic drought, and it's creating an extreme fire risk. Our state's bosque is where experts are tracking most of the danger.

Research scientist Marissa Goodwin says, "as the climate is warming, and the temperatures are rising, things are drying out faster."

Dry vegetation and scorched branches can turn our bosque into a tinderbox, and officials say a dry forest floor and extreme winds can pose a significant threat to our bosque.

UNM professor Matthew Hurteau says, "These forests dry out, and, you know, they're drier than they, they were 15 or 20 years ago, which makes them a lot more flammable. When you mix that dryness with, you know, this pretty extreme wind event that we've had for the past few days, you get really flammable forest conditions."

They say even something as small as a cigarette can start a significant wildfire in areas like our bosque.

"When that perfect storm hits with the weather conditions, all you need is the spark, and the fuels themselves will help that fire spread," Goodwin said.

Climate change is also affecting the length of our fire season.

"Historically, it didn't start until like, may and then would end come September, October. Now, we're seeing wildfires occurring in the winter, and now ones occurring in April. That's all driven by climate change," Goodwin said.

Experts say it's a trend that isn't going anywhere anytime soon, so if you live near the bosque, you should fireproof your home.

"You don't want tree branches touching your home. You want to keep pine needles out of your gutters. You want an asphalt shingle or metal roof because those provide great protection against fire," Hurteau said.

You can also request someone who is 'firewise' certified to recommend safe fire practices for your property.

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