While most of the continent endures freezing winter conditions, seven of the drier US states already have fire weather warnings in effect. A large area south of Denver, and another large area south of Kansas City are primarily of concern.

Florida is preparing for another worrying year of wildfires. The tropical US state is not a stranger to wildfires at any point in the year but they definitely pick up in late winter and early spring.

This month Fort McMurray's fire chief Darby Allen is retiring, having seen enough fire for a lifetime after last spring. He'll be succeeded by Jody Butz, who was formerly the assistant deputy chief and has been with Fort McMurray's Regional Emergency Services for over fifteen years.