Zombie fires, sometimes called _peat fires_ or _bog fires,_ often begin as wildfires that smolder and burn deep within the organic matter beneath the Earth's surface. Once ignited, they can persist for weeks, months, or even years, only to reignite and pop up in different places.

Zombie fires are largely driven by climate change, which causes rising temperatures and reduced snow cover in the Arctic. This leads to drier conditions and more frequent wildfires. Once peat fires start, they are difficult to extinguish because they can burn deep within the ground without visible flames.

Causes of zombie fires:

- Climate Change: Rising temperatures and prolonged droughts are drying out peatlands, making them more susceptible to fires.

- Peat Accumulation: Peatlands are composed of partially decayed plant matter, creating a dense fuel source for fires.

- Strong Winds: High winds can fan the flames and spread peat fires over vast areas.

- Underground Fuel Sources: Root systems and deep organic deposits provide continuous fuel for the fire to sustain underground burning.

- Inadequate Fire Management: Lack of proper firefighting resources and limited access to remote peatland areas can hinder containment efforts.

Peat fires are a major concern because they release large amounts of greenhouse gases, contributing to further global warming. They also release dangerous air pollutants that can harm human health.

In recent years, zombie fires have become more frequent and severe in the Arctic. In 2020, a massive zombie fire burned for more than two months in Siberia, releasing an estimated 10 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.