Wildfires continue to occur across New England as increasing drought combined with wind and dry air create ideal conditions for fires to start and spread. The problem is not just the lack of rain, but also the time of year.

There are essentially two fire seasons in New England. One in the spring before leaf emergence – when the higher angle of sunlight and low humidity can dry out the top layer of brush and leaves (even in a relatively wet period), and in the fall when leaf litter and dry periods can create another potential powder keg in the forests , highway medians, open fields and dry wetlands.

Dry soil can also make the situation worse.

There is a risk of a long-lasting smoldering fire in Salem. “Hot spots” can burrow underground and penetrate the root systems of trees and the so-called “duff” layer of the forest floor. Here the fire can fester and literally hibernate for weeks, if not longer, until a steady, sustained rainfall occurs.

The flames appeared to be concentrated in a wooded area between Highland Avenue and Spring Pond, near the Lynn city limits

The air quality in the immediate vicinity of any fires is also affected by this weather event.

A cool, clear night under high pressure causes an inversion over the region and traps the smoke layer near the ground.

If you’re in any of the towns surrounding Salem, you’ll likely see and smell this by Monday morning. Developing breezes should mix the air and disperse the smoke by late morning or afternoon.