AdvertisementWildfires raging through Sequoia National Park in California have scorched the famed Bench Tree and are threatening the ancient groves as firefighters race to contain the encroaching blazes. Incident commanders said the Windy Fire, which has already charred 25,191 acres and is only 4% contained, burned into Long Meadow Grove along the Trail of 100 Giants. Images captured on Tuesday showcased the glowing blaze at it engulfed Long Meadow Grove, continuing to swirl around tree trunks and branches. Heat from normal wildfires in the past was considered beneficial for sequoia reproduction, but increasing fire intensity now can very likely kill them. In 2020, the Castle fire destroyed as much as 14 percent of all the worlds giant sequoias.

Source: Daily Mail September 22, 2021 19:40 UTC