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Dec 6, 2023
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How Canada’s Record Wildfires Got So Bad, So Fast
Question 1:
Based on the provided text, the dependent and independent variables in the context of Canada's
record wildfires can be identified as follows:
1.
Dependent Variable:
Acres Burned by Wildfires in Canada: This variable represents the total area of land that has
been burned by wildfires in Canada. It is the main variable of interest and is dependent on
various factors. Logging and deforestation practices have disrupted natural ecosystems, making
them more susceptible to fire propagation (Balch et al., 2017). Poorly managed and extinguished
campfires within forested areas can ignite wildfires (Moritz et al., 2020).
2.
Independent Variables:
Hot, dry, windy weather and Vegetation: These weather conditions are independent
variables that contribute to the likelihood and intensity of wildfires. They include high
temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds. The presence and condition of vegetation
act as an independent variable. Dry and flammable vegetation provides fuel for wildfires.
The increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves have further dried out vegetation,
increasing fuel for wildfires (Wehner et al., 2017).
People and climate change: Although not directly measured in the provided text, climate
change is mentioned as a factor influencing the increasing severity and frequency of
wildfires. Previous studies have indicated that climate change is caused by people and
human factor is mentioned in this article. It can be considered an independent variable
affecting the dependent variable.
Ignition sources: Ignition sources, such as lightning strikes are independent variables that
can start wildfires.
Question 2:
The provided graphs and charts in the article help visualize and support the information
presented about Canada's record wildfires. Let's discuss each graph and its relevance to the
article:
1. Acres Burned by Wildfires in Canada:
This graph shows the total acres burned by wildfires in Canada from various years,
including 2023. It highlights the significant increase in acres burned compared to
previous years, such as the previous record in 1989.
The statistical data accurately addresses the issue presented in the article by
demonstrating the scale and severity of the wildfires in Canada. It supports the statement
that 2023 has already surpassed the previous annual record and is the country's worst
wildfire season on record.
2. An Early and Intense Canadian Fire Season:
The graph shows that by early June 2023, the number of hot spot detections had already
reached a significantly higher level compared to previous years. Canada's wildfires have
been exacerbated by the effects of climate change.
The statistical data corresponds to the article's description of an early and intense fire
season in Canada. It provides evidence of the increased fire activity and supports the
statement that this year's fire season stands "head and shoulders above any other year."
Both graphs help illustrate the magnitude and progression of the wildfires in Canada, reinforcing
the information provided in the article. They provide visual evidence of the increasing number of
acres burned and the early and intense nature of the fire season. However, it's important to note
that the graphs alone cannot establish a direct causal relationship between wildfires and climate
change. The article mentions that studies directly linking climate change to this year's wildfires
have not yet been carried out, but the fire season aligns with scientists' understanding of how
global warming affects wildfires.
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Question 3:
The research presented in the article relies primarily on quantitative data to address the issue of
wildfires in Canada. The main focus is on providing statistical information such as the total acres
burned by wildfires in different years, the number of hot spot detections, and the comparison of
the current fire season with previous records. These quantitative data points help quantify the
extent and severity of the wildfires.
However, the article also includes some qualitative aspects by providing descriptions and
explanations of the factors contributing to the wildfires. It mentions the hot, dry, and windy
conditions that have fueled the fires, the impact of high temperatures and heat waves, and the
role of human activities and climate change.
Reduced air quality affects public health, leading to
increased healthcare costs and decreased productivity. These qualitative aspects help provide
context and understanding of the causes and consequences of the wildfires.
If the article were to address the issues with qualitative research, it could include more in-depth
interviews or surveys with experts, firefighters, and affected communities to gather their
perspectives, experiences, and insights on wildfires. Qualitative research could provide a deeper
understanding of the social, economic, and environmental impacts of wildfires, as well as the
challenges faced in firefighting and evacuation efforts. The evacuation of residents and the
destruction of homes and infrastructure resulted in significant economic losses. It could also
explore the psychological and emotional toll on individuals and communities affected by the
wildfires. By incorporating qualitative research, the article could provide a more comprehensive
and nuanced analysis of wildfires and their implications.
References:
Balch, J. K., Bradley, B. A., Abatzoglou, J. T., Nagy, R. C., Fusco, E. J., & Mahood, A. L.
(2017). Human-started wildfires expand the fire niche across the United States. Proceedings of
the National Academy of Sciences, 114(11), 2946-2951.
Moritz, M. A., Batllori, E., Bradstock, R. A., Gill, A. M., Handmer, J., Hessburg, P. F., ... &
Syphard, A. D. (2014). Learning to coexist with wildfire. Nature, 515(7525), 58-66.
Wehner, M. F., Arnold, J. R., Knutson, T., Kunkel, K. E., & LeGrande, A. N. (2017). Droughts,
floods, and wildfires. Climate science special report: fourth national climate assessment,
1(GSFC-E-DAA-TN49033).