The state of California has declared a state of emergency after over a dozen major wildfires erupted across northern and central regions, burning more than 400,000 acres. Firefighters are battling flames under triple-digit temperatures and dry winds, with over 15,000 residents already evacuated.
Governor Gavin Newsom has requested federal aid as the fires threaten infrastructure and national parks. Climate scientists attribute the intense fire season to prolonged droughts and rising global temperatures.
South Asia, including parts of central India and Nepal, is closely monitoring this crisis, as wildfire patterns begin affecting Himalayan forest belts as well—prompting calls for international collaboration in fire forecasting technologies.