Zombie Fires

About Zombie Fires: 

• It is a fire that becomes dormant (inactive) in the winter and again active in warmer months. 
• The fires remain active under the snow.

Why it occurs: 

• Peat and organic matter in the ground can keep burning slowly, reigniting fires even after the surface fire appears to be extinguished.
• Dry and warm weather conditions can create favorable conditions for dormant fires to restart burning and spread.
• The rise in global temperatures has caused more favorable conditions for burning. 

Impact of Zombie Fires: 

• Increased air pollution and emissions: Zombie fires release large amounts of smoke and pollutants, carbon emissions.

• Forest destruction: These fires can destroy vegetation, trees, and wildlife habitats.

• Longer fire seasons: The burning of fires extends the fire season, making it more challenging for firefighters to control them.

• Economic losses: Zombie fires can damage infrastructure, homes, and agricultural lands, leading to financial losses for communities and individuals.

Why in news?

• With the increase in global temperature, the fires are spreading toward the Arctic, hence causing the increase in Zombie fires.