Massachusetts Brushfire Outbreak of 2024
Massachusetts faces ongoing brush fires amid severe drought conditions.
Over the course of our unseasonably warmer and drier than average fall, the state of Massachusetts has experienced an unusually high number of brushfires, driven by persistent drought conditions and low humidity. Over 200 fires have been reported in November 2024 alone, a dramatic increase when compared to historical averages. Notable incidents include a large 220-acre fire in Boxford State Forest and several others across the state in areas like Lynn, Braintree, Salem and Great Barrington.
Fire crews from Boxford and surrounding towns battling a 200-acre fire in Boxford, MA. 11/19/2024
The prolonged dry weather that has presisted since the beginning of September has exacerbated drought conditions throughout the New England. However, Massachusetts has experienced the worst of the drought conditions.
As of December 2024, Massachusetts is experiencing significant drought conditions, with 90.8% of the state classified as being in a drought state (D1 to D3). The majority of the state is categorized under Severe Drought (D2), while 26.6% is in Extreme Drought (D3).
The map shows the geographic distribution of wildfire locations across Massachusetts, with a high concentration in central and eastern Massachusetts, particularly around the Boston metropolitan area, Cape Cod, and southeastern regions. Western Massachusetts and parts of southern Vermont and New Hampshire exhibit fewer wildfires, likely due to lower population density and reduced human activity.
The map illustrates population concentration across Massachusetts and nearby areas, with the densest clusters around major urban centers such as Boston, Worcester, and Springfield.
Ways you can prevent Wildfires
Preventing wildfires requires a combination of proactive measures, education, and responsible behavior. Individuals can help by properly disposing of flammable materials, such as cigarettes and campfire debris, and by adhering to fire safety guidelines when camping or engaging in outdoor activities. It is essential to clear dry vegetation, leaves, and debris from around homes and properties to reduce fire fuel, especially in fire-prone areas.
Works Cited
| U.S. Drought Monitor, droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?MA. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.
Klein, Asher. “Most of Massachusetts in Critical Drought, as Brush Fires Smolder.” NECN, NECN, 20 Nov. 2024, www.necn.com/news/local/massachusetts-critical-drought-brush-fires/3393621/?os=firetv&ref=app.
Riley, Neal. “Map Shows Brush Fires Growing in Massachusetts as Drought Continues.” CBS News, CBS Interactive, 20 Nov. 2024, www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/brush-fires-massachusetts-map-drought/.
Gomez, Julia. “Multiple Brush Fires Burn across Massachusetts, Bans Put in Place: See Map of Blazes.” USA Today, Gannett Satellite Information Network, 30 Oct. 2024, www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/10/30/massachusetts-brush-fires-map/75934097007/.
