Wildfires in Córdoba: a challenge in the face of climate change and prevention.

The issue of wildfires in Córdoba, particularly in Baena, has gained relevance in recent years, especially in the context of climate change and global warming. As temperatures rise and weather conditions become more extreme, the region faces an inevitable challenge: learning to coexist with fire in a Mediterranean environment where, as Juan Ramón Molina, director of the Forest Fire Laboratory at the University of Córdoba (UCO), points out, "wildfires have been, are, and will always be." This laboratory, which has been conducting research for over two decades, has become a reference point in Spain for the study of wildfires. With a practical approach, its researchers work with real fire to analyze the behavior of flames and develop prevention and control strategies. "We need experimental and prescribed burns to understand how they work," Molina explains, highlighting the importance of research in fire management. The laboratory's work is not limited to academic research. It actively collaborates with public administrations and private institutions, seeking to improve effectiveness and efficiency in the fight against fires. This effort becomes crucial in a context where budgets are increasingly limited. "We need to be efficient, that is, to spend the money we have wisely," Molina emphasizes, while underscoring the importance of prevention. One of the most alarming aspects highlighted by this expert is the connection between humans and the ignition of fires. Most wildfires in Córdoba are caused by human actions, often near communication routes or power lines. This reality prompts us to reflect on the responsibility citizens have in preserving the natural environment, especially in high-risk areas like Cerro Muriano, which has been the site of devastating fires in the past. The geography of the province of Córdoba, with its slopes and areas of difficult access, further complicates firefighting efforts. The topography, combined with the hot and dry climate, creates an explosive cocktail for the initiation and spread of fires. Molina details that in Sierra Morena, the most affected region, there is a fuel load of over 30 tons per hectare. This figure is not only alarming but also complicates the possibility of controlling a fire once it starts. The situation is further exacerbated by the heavy rainfall last spring, which, although seemingly beneficial, has led to an increase in available vegetation fuel. "The rain delays the onset of summer, but it also generates more material that can burn," Molina explains, emphasizing the complexity of fire management in a changing climate. The current situation demands a multidimensional response that includes both prevention and emergency management. It is essential that homes in high-risk areas are prepared, using materials that do not promote the spread of fire. Additionally, educating and raising awareness among the population is crucial, not only to prevent accidental ignitions of fires but also to encourage responsible management of the environment. Collaboration between institutions, such as the Forest Fire Laboratory and the Infoca Plan, is essential to implement effective prevention measures. Through advising and analyzing past fires, areas for improvement can be identified, and strategies can be developed to minimize the impact of future fires. Ultimately, what presents itself as an imminent challenge can also be an opportunity to rethink our relationship with nature. Learning to coexist with fire means adapting our practices and being aware of the risks involved in living in a Mediterranean environment. In this regard, the work of the UCO laboratory is more relevant than ever, offering solutions and strategies that help protect both the population and the valuable ecosystem of Córdoba. Undoubtedly, the fight against wildfires is a shared responsibility that requires the commitment of all to ensure a safer and more sustainable future.