My Science School

They destroy huge patches of forest, and spread very quickly, especially in dry weather. Lightning starts hundreds of wildfires a year. But most fires are started by people to clear space for farms and fields. These fires can quickly get out of control.

Is it true? Some trees have fireproof bark.

Yes. Many trees die in forest fires because their wood easily catches fire. But some trees have special bark which protects the wood inside from the flames.

How do people fight wildfires?

Fighting a wildfire is difficult and dangerous. Special planes fly overhead spraying the forest with millions of litres of water. Firefighters on the ground try to hold back the fire with water and beaters.

What is a heatwave?

A heatwave is very hot weather which lasts much longer than usual. The scorching heat can kill people, animals and crops. It also dries up reservoirs, and melts the surface of roads.

Amazing! It can take hundreds of years for a forest to grow again after a fire. But sometimes fires can be good for forests. They clear space for new plants to grow.