Extreme Events

Topic Overview (Summary of NOAA data & products related to Wild & Forest Fire)

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Each year tens of thousands of natural and manmade wildfires across the United States burn millions of acres. The height of the wildfire season occurs in the late summer months, particularly across the western states. The conditions for wildfire development are very dependent on climatic variables such as antecedent moisture, humidity-levels, windspeed, and high temperature extremes. Lightning often starts a number of brush or forest fires, but the majority are started by humans through accidents or intentionally.

U.S. fire fighters regularly use NOAA climate data and products such as Firedetect or smoke observation summaries, to make decisions in regard to fire suppression strategies and safety issues. This data are critical for fire fighters and emergency managers to monitor before, during and after a wildfire has developed, as the intensity of wildfires and the rate at which they spread is directly related to the aforementioned climatic variables.

There are several ecological benefits of wildfires, as old brush is burned away and more space and fertilized soil is then available for new forest growth. However, the economic benefits in protecting homes, businesses, lives, and valuable infrastructure is even greater. NOAA's climate data and fire weather forecasts are valuable resources to society, as watches and warnings are issued in areas subject to a hazardous combination of high temperatures, high winds, and low-humidity over an extended period. Severe drought conditions are often correlated with high risks for wildfire development. Numerous other NOAA data and products are also used in monitoring wildfire and drought conditions, including: weather forecasts, COOP data, the U.S. drought monitor, and GOES satellite imagery. Each of these sources of information enhances critical decision making to protect life and property from wildfire.