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Wildfires Quadruple Since 1980: Urgent Action Needed

10/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Wildfires now occur about four times as often as in the 1980s.
The study analyzed the 200 most damaging fires since 1980, noting higher losses.
From 2014 to 2023, catastrophic fires averaged nearly nine per year; Europe and North America were highest.
The study urges targeting ecologically destructive fires in populated areas and improving preparation amid rising extreme weather.

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Story summary

Wildfires now occur about four times as often as in the 1980s.
The study analyzed the 200 most damaging fires since 1980, noting higher losses.
From 2014 to 2023, catastrophic fires averaged nearly nine per year; Europe and North America were highest.
The study urges targeting ecologically destructive fires in populated areas and improving preparation amid rising extreme weather.