The 2017 Wildfire Season: 420,002,017th year of biomass burning on Earth (Invited Presentation)

As of this writing, notable fire activity during 2017 has occurred in Canada, Portugal and the U.S. British Columbia had its worst fire season in history. In June, Portugal experienced devastating and deadly fires in which 64 people died and over 200 injured. In the U.S., the Pacific Northwest, northern Rockies and northern California regions experienced extensive fire activity in August and September. Significant wildfire smoke and air quality causing human health impacts was particularly notable in these areas. Portland and Seattle both experienced direct ash fall from fires. Argentina and Chile also experienced serious fires this year. There was even an unusual fire event in Greenland in August. This presentation highlights the 2017 wildfire season, emphasizing the role of weather and climate, and key events and impacts through pictures and narrative.