Why There is an Elevated Wildfire Risk Across Massachusetts
Massachusetts is currently under an elevated risk for wildfires across the Commonwealth, and there are many factors contributing to this risk.
To begin with, NBC10 notes in the forecast video below that this is one of the dryest falls on record. As of publishing, Boston has been without any measurable rain for 45 days since September 1, and there’s currently no rain being forecast for the near future.
Not only have conditions been dry, but the wind has been stronger. Plus, with leaves falling and the temperatures being above average, that creates a recipe for wildfires. NBC10 reports that there are currently two active wildfires in Massachusetts encompassing about 98 acres. So far in 2024, 667 acres of land have burned in Massachusetts from 590 recorded fires.
The Lynn Woods Reservation in Lynn, Mass. has about 2,200 acres of forest land, and local authorities are on high alert to make sure a wildfire doesn’t break out.
Lynn Fire Lt. Dennis Ring told NBC10, “With how dry it has been, the current foliage that’s falling and everything, it’s something that we’re watching out for. We have people who are regularly in the woods hiking, biking, so that early detection and letting us know there’s a fire is huge.”
To help prevent wildfires, it is advised not to smoke in the wood or leave an open fire pit burning.
The Most Popular Halloween Candy in Massachusetts
Halloween is next week, so if you haven’t purchased candy to hand out to trick-or-treaters, you better get a move on it. However, if you’re stuck on what candy to hand out this Halloween, CandyStore.com might be able to help you out.
The candy retailer released their 2024 study breaking down the most popular Halloween candy in the United States. Their study also features a state-by-state breakdown of the most popular Halloween candy.
What’s the most popular Halloween candy in Massachusetts? In third place is Dubble Bubble Gum, with 51,583 pounds sold. In second is Sour Patch Kids, with 73,295 pounds sold. Coming in first is Butterfinger, which just edged out Sour Patch Kids with 73,779 pounds sold.
In 2024, Halloween candy sales have tallied to a whopping $3.5 billion. Believe it or not, that number is down slightly compared to 2023, when sales added up to $3.6 billion. Those who celebrate Halloween will spend on average $31.69 on candy.
As far as the national rankings go, CandyStore.com says the following is the top 10 most popular Halloween candy in the United States:
10. Butterfinger
9. Hershey Mini Bars
8. Hershey Kisses
7. Candy Corn (Yes, candy corn haters…we know you probably can’t believe this.)
6. Hot Tamales
5. Starburst
4. Skittles
3. Sour Patch Kids
2. Reese’s Cups
1. M&M’s