What Are Wildfires?
A wildfire is an uncontrolled fire that spreads through natural areas such as forests, grasslands, or open fields. It can occur naturally (for example, from lightning strikes) or be caused by humans (such as burning waste or agricultural land). Wildfires spread especially fast in dry, windy conditions.
Common Wildfire Areas in Thailand
Wildfires occur most frequently in forested and dry regions across the country:
North: Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, and Mae Hong Son — the most wildfire-prone provinces.
West: Tak and Kanchanaburi — both have vast mountainous forest areas.
Northeast: Loei and Nakhon Phanom — especially near border zones.
Central: Nakhon Sawan and Lopburi.
South: Forested areas in Phang Nga and Krabi during the dry season.
Wildfire Season in Thailand
Wildfires are most common from December to April, during the dry season when rainfall is low and wind speeds are high.
The most critical period is February to March, when dry air and strong winds make fires spread rapidly.
Levels of Wildfire Severity
Wildfires are classified into three main types:
Surface Fires: Burn along the ground, consuming dry leaves, grass, and small branches.
Crown Fires: Spread to treetops — the most destructive type, causing massive forest damage.
Ground Fires: Burn underground in dense organic soil. They spread slowly but are very difficult to extinguish.
Causes of Wildfires in Thailand
Natural Causes:
Lightning strikes.
Hot, dry, and windy weather during the dry season.
Human Activities:
Burning forests for farming.
Burning waste or grass without control.
Carelessly discarding cigarette butts in forested areas.
What to Do If a Wildfire Breaks Out
1. Report immediately:
Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation: 199
Department of National Parks: 1362
2. Evacuate from danger zones:
If the fire is close, move to a safe, open area such as a clearing or a wide field.
3. Close doors and windows:
If staying indoors, seal gaps with a damp cloth to prevent smoke from entering.
4. Wear a mask:
To protect yourself from inhaling toxic fumes.
What to Do If You Get Burned
Burn Severity:
First-degree burn: Red, mild pain, no blisters.
Second-degree burn: Painful with blisters.
Third-degree burn: Skin destroyed, visible tissue beneath; may feel less pain as nerves are damaged.
First Aid Steps:
Cool the burn: Rinse with clean, cool running water for 10–15 minutes.
Cover with a clean cloth: Use sterile gauze to prevent infection.
Do not apply home remedies: Avoid toothpaste, aloe, or creams unless prescribed.
See a doctor immediately if the burn is large or on sensitive areas like the face, hands, or joints.
Government Efforts to Prevent Wildfires
Increased Funding:
Provide high-pressure water equipment and firefighting tools.
Stronger Laws:
Enforce open burning bans with heavier penalties.
Reforestation Projects:
Support tree planting in previously burned areas.
Community Training:
Teach local communities how to create firebreaks and perform basic firefighting.
ASEAN Collaboration:
Share technology and data — such as using satellite systems to detect heat spots.
Success Story: Chiang Mai’s Fire Management
Chiang Mai established volunteer wildfire response teams equipped with drones and satellite monitoring systems to detect early heat spots. These measures have significantly reduced wildfire damage across the province.
In Summary
Wildfires don’t just destroy forests — they harm the environment, human health, and local economies. But with awareness, preparedness, and collective action, we can prevent much of the damage they cause.
For more information about wildfire prevention and emergency response, visit the Department of National Parks or the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.
References:
Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation
Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (Hotline: 1784)