CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — Fire officials say drought and weather conditions across the West could create a perfect storm of simultaneous wildfires and make it tougher for Nevada to get out-of-state aid.
Authorities from several agencies briefed Gov. Brian Sandoval on Monday on the forecast for the upcoming fire season.
They say Nevada has lost the equivalent of 1-2 years' worth of precipitation over the past four years, and the past winter was the warmest on record since 1895 for much of the state.
The lack of snow means dry forests vulnerable to fires.
Foresters say they're busy educating the public about how to protect homes from fires, and are coordinating between agencies to prepare for an active season.
Sandoval signed a multi-state declaration after the briefing that declares May Wildfire Awareness Month.