A long-duration heat wave will hit California in early August, just as the state enters what is historically the peak of its wildfire season. … Rapid drying of the landscape is expected amid the hot weather. Vegetation will be more flammable than any point so far this year, with near-record levels of energy available for any fire that does break out. … California’s fire season to this point has been quiet relative to neighboring states. … The reason for California’s relative good fortune so far is generally threefold: More than 71% of the West is experiencing drought, compared with just 6% of California, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The relationship between drought and fire is complex, but drier landscapes generally increase the potential for large wildfires.

Other drought impact news around the West:

• CalMatters (Sacramento, Calif.): California’s quiet fire summer is about to meet a brutal heat wave
• KTAR (Phoenix): Kearny mayor says town’s water supply should last through this year, but 2027 is questionable
• Aspen Journalism (Colo.): Fryingpan River to see high flows as Ruedi releases increase
• Wyoming Public Media: During drought, watch for more wildlife than usual along roads