2025 ND wildfire statistics and prevention measures you can take

BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – The recent combination of high temperatures, strong winds, and arid conditions has led to an increased risk where even minor wildfires can escalate quickly.

So far this year, more than 400 wildfires have scorched over 28,000 acres throughout North Dakota. During the Mother’s Day holiday weekend, another 60 fires were documented, including 20 just on Sunday.

The fire danger rating system indicates the potential for fire expansion rather than its initial spark. Should a blaze begin on a day with high fire risk, it is probable that the conflagration would escalate rapidly.

A method to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and your residence is to establish defensible space. This involves setting up three distinct areas surrounding the exterior of your house. The dimensions for zones two and three could depend on where your property boundaries lie.

The first area nearest to the dwelling is Zone One. It extends approximately five feet outward from the structure. In this region, it’s advisable to use fewer flammable materials and elements such as patios, walkways, and pebbles for landscaping purposes. Ensure not to stack wood piles beneath your porch or directly adjacent to your building.

Zone two is five to 30 feet away from the house. You want to remember to prune or remove dead or dying vegetation. Outbuildings or sheds, trailers, and other recreational vehicles should be moved farther away from the house.

In zone three, maintain a distance ranging from 30 to 100 feet from your home; this extends up to 150 to 200 feet if your residence sits atop a hill or ridge. Be sure to eliminate any deceased vegetation. Additionally, reduce density among bushes, shrubs, and trees by thinning them out and spacing them apart adequately.

This is what defensible space at work looks like:

The preservation of these homes was due to the landscaping and effective planning across the three zones, which acted as barriers.

Agricultural owners ought to adhere to supplementary checklists to ready themselves against potential wildfires. Such measures encompass formulating escape strategies specifically tailored for their cattle, even though circumstances may prevent these creatures from being relocated swiftly because of fast-spreading flames. It’s crucial to set up and sustain areas devoid of fuel known as firebreaks encircling cultivated lands and grazing zones. Also, ensure ample protected buffer exists surrounding structures and machinery. Additionally, develop comprehensive exit procedures covering both inhabitants and employees alike.

In case of an impending fire, ensure you stay updated with the most current information and follow instructions from local officials should evacuation be necessary.

In 2024, the leading factors contributing to wildfires in North Dakota included the operation of machinery, uncontrolled burning of waste materials, and improperly disposed cigarettes.