Three wildfires wreak havoc in the US, is this the sign of an intense summer?

Certain states in the US are no strangers to hot summers and wildfires. The states of California and Arizona have already been subjected to wildfires barely a month into summer.

Wildfires in Arizona

On Sunday, June 12, a wildfire broke out to the north of Flagstaff and according to The Guardian, the blaze grew to around 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares). Dubbed the Pipeline fire, it spread quickly due to gusty winds and dried-out grass and bushes. Officials said in an update on Monday, June 13:

Strong winds coupled with warm weather have been the challenging factor for firefighters and air resources, as winds are predicted to be 40 to 50 mph today

It is still unclear what caused the wildfire, although Forest Law Enforcement said a 57-year-old has been arrested while investigations continue to find the cause.

On Monday, June 13, a second wildfire called the Haywire fire, ignited nearby. This one is likely caused by flying embers and has grown to around 1,600 acres (650 hectares). Officials expect the two fires will combine.

As a result, many residents have been forced to evacuate the area.

Wildfire in California

On Saturday, June 11, a wildfire broke out in California. The Sheep fire ignited near Wrightfood, close to the Pacific Crest rail in the San Gabriel mountains according to The Guardian.

The fire spread quickly through the mountains due to the lack of moisture in the terrain leaving trees and bushes completely dry, according to the San Bernardino County fire department.

The Sheep fire has spread around 990 acres (400 hectares) and around 18% of the fire was contained by the Monday afternoon,according to officials. Around 300 people have been evacuated from the area.

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