View a map of fires across the state. – Carswellfamilyfoundation

Officials imposed a ban on Massachusetts because more than 100 were registered there. forest fires over the past week and an increased risk of wildfires.

There have been more than 120 wildfires in the state over the past seven days, covering about 450 acres, said Jake Wark, state public affairs officer. Massachusetts Fire DepartmentesUSA TODAY reported.

Fires occur because weather conditions can cause dry foliage, such as leaves and dead vegetation, to ignite or fuel existing fires.

“Dry, sunny and windy weather is great for recreation, but it also means that any outdoor fire will spread quickly and be very difficult to control,” State Fire Marshal John M. Davin said in a statement. “We are seeing preventable fires grow to dangerous sizes and require numerous resources, both locally and regionally.”

Communities across Massachusetts are at increased risk of wildfires, according to the department. The fire can spread to residential areas and beyond.

The state received some light rain Wednesday, but “outdoor fires will continue to spread and grow,” he said.

Massachusetts Department of Security and Recreation banned all open fires and charcoal burning in state parks “to prevent drought-related wildfires.” Valid until further notice.

Massachusetts wildfire map

What causes fires?

The fires are driven by a combination of man-made and natural causes, Caitlin Mensch, a forecaster with the National Weather Service in Boston, told USA TODAY.

Dry weather also contributes to forest fires.

Dry weather expected to continue

Areas of the state received between a hundredth of an inch and a quarter of an inch early Wednesday, but that amount was not enough to mitigate the dry conditions, Mensch said.

“It’s a brief moment of relief, but I wouldn’t say it will end any concerns about fires in the region,” she said.

While there are no fire warnings, Mensch said the NWS has issued a special weather statement indicating that dry conditions may contribute to fires.

These conditions may continue in the coming weeks.

The state is also seeing above-average temperatures this season, Mensch said. Temperatures typically range from the low to mid 50s, but are in the low to mid 70s Wednesday. Temperatures in Boston could reach 81 degrees.

Officials and emergency managers “really want to remain vigilant” Friday as winds pick up in Massachusetts, Mensch said. The state will see wind gusts around 30 mph, which could help the fire grow in size.

Woman killed in fire in Massachusetts

A small brush fire turned deadly Saturday night in Millbury, Massachusetts, about 50 miles southwest of Boston, while the state was under a red flag, according to the Fire Department. It is believed that it originated in the camp.

Maryann Audette, 49, was reportedly found dead at the scene of the fire. Telegram and newspaperpart of the USA TODAY Network. A GoFundMe was created to help fund her funeral.

The fire was later extinguished after Millbury Fire Department and police were notified.

How to prevent a fire

Officials are asking residents to avoid certain activities while the dry weather persists.

“Avoid outdoor burning at this time,” Mensch said. “Try to avoid anything that could cause a spark, and if you see a fire, report it.”

The Fire Department is also asking residents to do the following:

Avoid cooking outdoors.
Be careful when using lawn mowers, leaf blowers, all-terrain vehicles and other power equipment as their engines can become hot enough to ignite leaves and grass.
To dispose of ash from a fireplace or wood stove, place it in a metal can, cover with water, and then cover with a tight-fitting lid.
Smoke materials should be extinguished in a sturdy ashtray with water or sand.
Do No Dispose of cigarettes or other smoking materials on the balcony, in dry vegetation or trash. Also, avoid extinguishing/causing them on stairs or railings.

Open burning is also prohibited in Massachusetts until January, according to the department.

Assistance: Marco Cartolano Worcester Telegram and Newspaper

Julia is a featured reporter for USA TODAY. You can contact her at LinkedInfollow her X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram And TikTok: @juliamariegz or email her at [email protected].