The calendar is quickly turning to late April, which means we are heading into the peak of Florida’s brush fire season.
While many think of Florida as a lush tropical region with daily rainfall, the winter dry season takes a toll on the area.
By the time we get to April, the lack of daily rainfall allows trees and vegetation to dry out, resulting in an increased threat for brush fires.
This threat peaks from late April into early June, when a combination of dry weather, high sun-angle and reduced humidity combine to create an elevated brush fire danger.
Earlier this year, there were indications that the 2022 brush fire season could be concerning, with limited rainfall expected.
But after the Orlando International Airport only picked 0.71 inches of rain in February, the rain has been plentiful.
In March, Orlando received 5.76 inches of rain. This was 2.73 inches above normal.
So far in April, the city has picked up 5.20 inches of rain. This is 3.30 inches above the average.
The bountiful rainfall has eliminated the developing drought in central Florida.
In the last drought monitor from the National Drought Mitigation Center, only far southern areas are in any drought condition.
This is all good news, as the lack of a drought and a surplus of rain will help mitigate any widespread brush fires.
However, the threat of fires will remain elevated for the next several weeks.
Climatologically speaking, this time of the year is the highest chance for brush fires in Florida. Vegetation and trees will continue to slowly dry out, and some small brush fires have already broken out earlier this season.
Officially, the significant fire potential outlook from the National Interagency Fire Center shows an above-average chance of brush fires in central and southern Florida.
However, the highest chance of brush fires will likely be in southwest Florida, where a severe drought has developed.
So while the threat for brush fires will be with us through mid-June, the threat will probably be lower thanks to significant spring rains.