Watching from Above: How Earth Observation Technology Strengthens Fire Prevention and Response
Wildfires are becoming more frequent, intense, and destructive worldwide. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, changing land use, and extreme weather conditions have turned many regions into high-risk fire zones. Beyond immediate destruction, fires threaten ecosystems, human health, infrastructure, and economies. To effectively reduce these risks, authorities and researchers need timely, accurate, and comprehensive information. Earth observation technology provides exactly that, offering a powerful tool to detect, monitor, and prevent fires before they spiral out of control. Understanding Earth Observation in Fire Management Earth observation involves collecting data about the planet using satellites, aerial platforms, and ground-based sensors. These systems capture information across visible, infrared, and thermal wavelengths, enabling the identification of environmental conditions associated with fire risk. In the context of fire management, Earth observation enables continuous ...