MAINE, USA — High temperatures and lack of rain are creating dangerous wildfire conditions across Maine, prompting fire crews and forest rangers to ramp up staffing and equipment to stay ahead of potential blazes.

"Just a small spark can create a wildfire," Casey Perry, assistant Bangor Fire chief, explained. "Last month, it wouldn't have been as big of a deal, but this month it can really turn into something quick."

One recent wildfire in Washington County, near Baileyville, kept local firefighters and Maine Forest Service rangers working overtime to keep flames under control. Officials say that’s just one example of the increasing number of incidents sparked by this summer’s dry conditions.

"Over the last week we've recorded 59 fires so far, and that's burned a total of 46.4 acres,"

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