Home / Environment / 2026 Wildfire Season Ignites Early, Fueled by Climate Change
2026 Wildfire Season Ignites Early, Fueled by Climate Change
14 May
Summary
- Global wildfires have scorched 50% more land than average this year.
- Africa experienced record burn areas, with 85 million hectares consumed.
- A potent El Nino is forecast, potentially worsening the wildfire outlook.
Researchers warn of a particularly severe wildfire year in 2026, with the season igniting much earlier than usual. Global burn areas have exceeded previous records, with approximately 50% more land scorched than the average for this period. Africa has experienced unprecedented wildfires, consuming 85 million hectares, far surpassing the prior record.
This surge is attributed to a 'hydroclimate whiplash' effect, where periods of heavy rainfall are followed by severe droughts and heatwaves. This pattern fuels explosive grass growth, creating abundant kindling for fires, even in typically less fire-prone regions. Asia has also seen massive wildfire outbreaks, burning nearly 40% more than previous records.
The situation is expected to intensify with the forecasted emergence of a 'super' El Nino later in 2026. This natural climate phenomenon, characterized by warming in the Pacific Ocean, significantly impacts global weather patterns and is predicted to worsen the already critical wildfire conditions. Forecasts indicate a high probability of El Nino developing between May and July and persisting through the year.
