While wildfires can happen anywhere in the United States where there is brush or trees, different regions have special issues to address based on the type of landscapes found in the area. Much of Arizona is considered a high-hazard fire environment. In the Southwest, we have six basic types of vegetation with which we are concerned during wildfire season that are outlined in a publication entitled, Living With Wildfire.
Grass and Desert Scrub
At wind speed of 20 mph with flat terrain, 3,000 acres can burn in one hour.
Riparian Areas
At wind speed of 20 mph with flat terrain, 1,000 acres can burn in one hour.
Ponderosa Pine Forest
At wind speed of 20 mph with flat terrain, 150 acres can burn in one hour.
Pinyon-Juniper Woodlands
At wind speed of 20 mph with flat terrain, 500 acres can burn in one hour.
Mixed Conifer
At wind speed of 20 mph with flat terrain, 10 acres can burn in one hour.
Tall Chapparal
At wind speed of 20 mph with flat terrain, 3, 600 acres can burn in one hour.
More About Arizona Wildfire Prevention and Resources
Arizona Firewise Communities
Page 1: Arizona Forests At Risk From Wildfires
Page 2: How Fast Do Wildfires Burn
