Bigger and more-frequent wildfires threaten water supplies across the US

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A record number of wildfires burned more than 14,062 square miles in the U.S. this year, leaving behind charred trees and scorched vegetation. But less-obvious are the impacts…

A record number of wildfires burned more than 14,062 square miles in the U.S. this year, leaving behind charred trees and scorched vegetation. But less-obvious are the impacts they had on the streams and rivers that provide drinking water to urban and rural communities across the country. After a wildfire burns a watershed, rain will carry ash and organic matter into the streams that feed water treatment plants for towns and cities. Utilities must turn off the intake to keep the sediment-filled water from contaminating their systems and switch to another source, if it’s available. New studies found that wildfires can contaminate water for up to 15 years.

Banner image: A helicopter drops water on the Grizzly Creek Fire on the east end of Glenwood Canyon, Aug. 17, 2020 near Glenwood Springs, Colo. Image courtesy of Helen H. Richardson/The Denver Post via Associated Press

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