The study conducted by researchers at the U.S. National Science Foundation National Center for Atmospheric Research (NSF NCAR) focused on fires in the wildland-urban interface (WUI) areas around the world, using satellite observations and machine learning techniques to create a unique database dating back two decades. The research revealed an increase in the number of fires occurring in WUI areas globally, as well as an increase in the area burned by WUI fires compared to all burned areas. WUI areas are expanding worldwide, with rapid urbanization in Africa being a significant factor. While the study did not specifically focus on climate change, the database can be useful in understanding the impact of climate change on fires.
WUI fires have caused significant devastation in recent years, resulting in the loss of lives and property. To understand trends in WUI fires, researchers utilized a global high-resolution map of WUI fires in 2020 along with NASA satellite data. By applying machine learning techniques to this data, they were able to generate a global database of WUI areas and fires dating back 20 years. The analysis confirmed the accuracy of the database by comparing it with existing datasets for the United States and globally. The researchers found that WUI areas have expanded by 24% from 2001 to 2020, with the largest increase occurring in Africa.
Despite a decrease in the overall number of fires worldwide since 2005, fires in WUI areas have become more common and larger in size. The WUI fraction of all fire counts has increased, especially in North America, where WUI fires have become larger and more destructive. The study also integrated the WUI database with a global climate and fires simulation, predicting an increase in the WUI fraction of burned areas worldwide by 2040 if current trends continue. However, changes in WUI areas and greenhouse gas emissions could alter this projection. Understanding the interaction between WUI fires and human activities is crucial in mitigating their impact on air quality, human health, and the environment.
The researchers emphasized the importance of quantifying and understanding WUI fires as they continue to increase globally. By analyzing trends in WUI fires over the past two decades, the study sheds light on the evolving nature of these fires on populated continents. As WUI areas expand and fires become more frequent, there is a pressing need to comprehend the links between WUI fires and human activities, as well as their effects on the environment. The study provides valuable insights into the changing landscape of WUI fires and highlights the importance of monitoring and addressing the growing threat they pose to communities worldwide.
The study also pointed out specific instances of catastrophic WUI fires in recent years, such as the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires in Australia and the 2017 Pedrosa Grande Fire in Portugal. These fires resulted in significant loss of life and property, highlighting the urgent need to address the risks associated with WUI fires. By utilizing advanced mapping techniques and satellite data, researchers were able to create a detailed global database of WUI areas and fires, providing valuable information for future studies and policies aimed at reducing the impact of these fires. Funding from NOAA supported the research, reinforcing the need for continued investment in understanding and addressing the increasing threat of WUI fires worldwide.