Extreme heat and climate trends increase wildfire risks

Extreme temperatures and low humidity are increasing the risk and speed of fire propagation in materials such as wood, vegetation, and paper. While high temperatures alone rarely cause structural fires, they act as a catalyst alongside ignition sources like electrical failures or improper handling of flammable materials.

In response to the 2026 forest fire season, UGT Servicios Públicos has called for increased investment, more resources, and larger staff numbers to combat increasingly virulent wildfires. Victoria Corbacho, Secretary of Local and Autonomous Administration, emphasized that the climate emergency requires a public and just response, noting that extreme heat and adverse weather conditions are making fires harder to manage. The union highlighted the need for year-round prevention and adequate protection for emergency workers.