NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- No matter where they live in middle Tennessee, residents can't escape the dangerous drought that Mother Nature dealt the area this year.

Video: Forestry Department Concerned By Wildfire Fears

Forestry experts are fearful that the next few weeks could bring some of the worst wildfires ever.

"Typically in Tennessee, we'll lose 10 to 15 homes to wildfire each year. That number could be much higher this year if the conditions are right," said Forestry Fire Chief John Kirksey.

As Nashville’s growth sprawls, more people are living high above the city.

The thirsty ground presents a risk. Usually, the soil serves as a buffer between the fire and the rest of the ground. But this year is so dry, it has become useless in preventing a blaze.

Experts said most fires are caused by arsonists or from embers. Now the fear is that a snapped power line or even a lightning strike could ignite the dry earth.

"Already we're seeing conditions that make it harder to put fires out initially to contain them, but also to maintain that control of the fire," said Kirksey.

To help combat the threat, the state started issuing burn permits six weeks earlier than usual.

Monday marked the first day of the wildfire season. Forestry agents said they've already been busy the last few weeks across Tennessee.