The History of Dirty August: What It Means and How to Prepare
Every year, as summer reaches its peak, wildland firefighters prepare for one of the most challenging and demanding periods of the fire season, known as "Dirty August." This term, coined within firefighting communities, marks the peak of the wildfire season, characterized by increased fire activity, challenging conditions, and heightened risks.
Understanding the origins and implications of Dirty August is crucial for both firefighters and residents in wildfire-prone regions. It enables better preparation and response during this critical period.
What is Dirty August?
"Dirty August" refers to the peak of the wildfire season in the United States, particularly in the Western states. Historically, August has been the month when the combination of hot temperatures, low humidity, and dry vegetation creates the perfect conditions for wildfires to ignite and spread rapidly. The term "dirty" emphasizes the grueling and relentless nature of this period, as firefighters face intense and often unpredictable fire behavior.
The term gained prominence in the mid-20th century as wildland firefighting became more organized and systematic. Firefighters and fire managers began to notice a pattern of increased fire activity during August, leading to the adoption of the term "Dirty August" to describe this challenging time.
August Wildfire Average
To better understand the scope of Dirty August, it's helpful to look at data from the past five years. According to the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), the year-to-date acres burned are above the ten-year average; however, the number of fires is below average. Here's a brief breakdown from the National Centers for Environmental Information on the average August fire stats from 2019 to 2023:
August 2024 (as of 8/15)
Total Large Fires*: 67 incidents (does not include total wildfire incidents)
Acres Burned on Large Fires: 2,271,843 Acres
Year-to-date Wildfires: 29,917 Incidents
Year-to-date Acres Burned: 5,382,815 Acres
2023
Wildfires in August: 9,080
Acres Burned in August: 867,538 Acres
Total Large Fires* (2023): 891
Total Annual Wildfires (2023): 56,580
Total Acres Burned (2023): 2,693,910 Acres
2022
Wildfires in August: 8,985
Acres Burned in August: 424,307 Acres
Total Large Fires* (2022): 1,289
Total Annual Wildfires (2022): 68,988
Total Acres Burned (2022): 7,577,183 Acres
2021
Wildfires in August: 5,239
Acres Burned in August: 1,904,506 Acres
Total Large Fires* (2021): 943
Total Annual Wildfires (2021): 58,985
Total Acres Burned (2021): 7,125,643 Acres
2020
Wildfires in August: 8,197
Acres Burned in August: 1,928,563 Acres
Total Large Fires* (2020): 999
Total Annual Wildfires (2020): 58,950
Total Acres Burned (2020): 10,122,336 Acres
2019
Wildfires in August: 8,765
Acres Burned in August: 1,001,587 Acres
Total Large Fires* (2019): 806
Total Annual Wildfires (2019): 50,487
Total Acres Burned (2019): 4,664,364 Acres
10-year Average Year to Date (2014-2023)
Total Wildfires: 37,829
Total Acres Burned: 4,271,274 Acres
*The NIFC's Annual Fire Report states the National Mobilization Guide identifies large fires as those that burn 100 acres of timber fuel or 300 acres of grass or brush fuel or need to be managed by a Type 1 or Type 2 Incident Management Team.
The Significance of Dirty August
During Dirty August, wildland firefighters often work long hours in extreme conditions. The intensity and frequency of wildfires during this month stretch firefighting resources to their limits, requiring coordinated efforts from multiple agencies and jurisdictions. The relentless nature of Dirty August also poses significant risks to firefighters, including heat exhaustion, dehydration, and fatigue.
Communities in wildfire-prone areas are also on high alert during this period, as the risk of property damage and evacuation orders increases.
Tips to Prepare for Dirty August
Firefighters
- Stay Hydrated and Healthy: The intense heat and physical demands of firefighting can lead to dehydration and fatigue. Drink plenty of water and take regular breaks to maintain energy levels.
- Maintain Equipment: Ensure all firefighting gear is in optimal condition. Regularly check and service equipment to prevent malfunctions during critical operations.
- Stay Informed: Keep up to date with weather forecasts and fire behavior predictions. Understanding the environmental conditions can help in making strategic decisions in the field.
- Work as a Team: Communication and coordination are vital. Stay in constant contact with your team and follow established safety protocols to minimize risks.
Residents
- Create Defensible Space: Clear vegetation and other flammable materials around your property to create a buffer zone. This can help slow the spread of fire and protect your home.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Have a kit ready with essential supplies, including water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents. Ensure everyone in your household knows where it is.
- Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather reports for fire alerts and evacuation notices. Sign up for community alert systems if available.
- Plan Evacuation Routes: Identify multiple evacuation routes from your home and practice them with your family. Know where the nearest shelters or safe areas are located.
- Support Your Firefighters: Show appreciation and support for firefighting efforts by donating to firefighter relief funds like the Wildland Firefighter Foundation or volunteering with local fire prevention programs.
- Follow Local Fire Restrictions And Guidelines: Reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires.
Dirty August is a reminder of the relentless power of wildfires and the importance of preparedness. As we navigate this challenging period, the collective efforts of communities, supported by our wildland firefighters, are crucial in mitigating the impact of wildfires.
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