Weather and climate play major roles in the development and spread of wildfires. Of the three major components making up a fire's environment (Fuel, Weather, and Topography), weather is the most important, and it is continuously changing.
Weather conditions that contribute to wildfires can be measured and predicted. Fire agencies monitor weather conditions daily and use indexes and forecasts to make decisions about how to fight fires and how to prevent new fires from igniting. Residents and visitors to areas where wildfires are likely to occur should be aware of current and predicted weather conditions, and take additional actions to prepare their family, home, and community when risk is elevated.