UBC Researchers Developed a System to Predict Spring Wildfires
Alyson Wyers — October 30, 2017 — Tech
References: news.ubc
This early wildfire warning system is designed to predict when human-caused blazes could occur. Researchers from the University of British Columbia developed the system to address Spring wildfires. The "spring burning window" takes place after snow melts and new green plants emerge and is acknowledged as the most dangerous time for human-caused wildfires in Alberta and BC's boreal forests.
The wildfire warning system uses satellite imagery of vegetation, which enables researchers to monitor moisture levels in leaves and other fuel sources, and therefore, forecast wildfire risk. UBC's forestry faculty postdoctoral fellow Paul Pickell states "By tracking greening vegetation, which is a reliable proxy for moisture content, we can predict the risk of a human-caused wildfire with 10-day accuracy by the end of March."
The wildfire warning system uses satellite imagery of vegetation, which enables researchers to monitor moisture levels in leaves and other fuel sources, and therefore, forecast wildfire risk. UBC's forestry faculty postdoctoral fellow Paul Pickell states "By tracking greening vegetation, which is a reliable proxy for moisture content, we can predict the risk of a human-caused wildfire with 10-day accuracy by the end of March."
Trend Themes
1. Early Wildfire Warning - The development of an early wildfire warning system using satellite imagery of vegetation allows for accurate predictions of wildfire risk.
2. Remote Sensing Technology - The use of remote sensing technology, such as satellite imagery, enables the monitoring of moisture levels in leaves and other fuel sources to forecast wildfire risk.
3. Data-driven Predictions - Leveraging data from satellite imagery and vegetation monitoring allows for data-driven predictions of human-caused wildfires in specific regions.
Industry Implications
1. Forestry - The forestry industry can benefit from the early wildfire warning system to better protect forests and minimize the impact of wildfires.
2. Environmental Monitoring - The environmental monitoring industry can utilize remote sensing technology to monitor vegetation health and forecast wildfire risk.
3. Disaster Management - The disaster management industry can leverage data-driven predictions to enhance preparedness and response strategies for wildfires.
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