Which environmental condition can hinder firefighters’ effectiveness during exterior operations?

High winds can significantly hinder firefighters' effectiveness during exterior operations for several reasons. First, strong winds can rapidly spread flames, creating larger fire areas and making it more difficult to control the fire. This can lead to unpredictable fire behavior, resulting in increased risks not only to the firefighters but also to civilians and surrounding structures.

Additionally, high winds can impact the flow of water from hoses and affect the trajectory of water streams, reducing their effectiveness in suppressing the flames. It may also complicate communication among firefighters, as the noise of rushing wind can mask verbal commands or radio communications.

Therefore, managing operations in such conditions requires additional caution and strategy, making it essential for firefighters to adapt their tactics to ensure safety and effectiveness in combating the fire.