UCLA research highlights the primary drivers of fire weather | Sustainable LA Grand Challenge

Karen Dutko
March 21, 2022
SLAGC News and Events

Publication: Popular Science

UCLA Expert: Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science, Institute of the Environmental and Sustainability, Center for Climate Science

Synopsis: A Popular Science article discussed the drivers behind the unusual wildfires burning through Texas. UCLA research revealed “vapor pressure deficit” to be a primary driver of increased chances of fire weather.

UCLA News: “As average temperatures increased since 1980, so did the chances of fire weather across the western U.S. The driver is the ‘vapor pressure deficit’ on vegetation: Hotter air holds more moisture and can act like a vacuum, sucking water out of plants and leaving them crisp and flammable.”