Forest fires are unplanned, accidental fires that spread across vegetation. Fire needs fuel, heat and oxygen to start. Forests contain all three ingredients, making them ideal fire platforms. Humans cause 88% of forest fires, while lightning causes 12%
Smouldering is a slow, flameless combustion on solid fuel surfaces. Propagates at 0.1 mm/s, ten times slower than flames. Requires porous materials with aggregates for oxygen interaction. Emits toxic gases and leaves significant solid residue
Pre-1800, 4.4-11.9 million acres burned annually in California. Native Californians controlled fires to prevent devastating wildfires. Wildfire activity peaked every 30 years, reaching 11.8 million acres
Climate varies widely from desert to alpine tundra based on latitude and elevation. Coastal regions have Mediterranean climate with warmer summers and cooler winters. Temperature gradient between coast and interior is about 7°F in winter, 20°F in summer
Wildfires are uncontrolled fires in combustible vegetation areas. Crown fires burn above ground, surface fires burn on ground, ground fires burn underground. Human activities cause 90% of US forest fires, natural causes 10%. Common human causes include burning trash, campfires, engine sparks, and arson. Natural causes include volcanic eruptions, lightning, dry climates, and extreme heat
Wildfires are uncontrollable natural disasters occurring in wilderness areas. They can move at speeds up to 14 miles per hour. Wildfires can jump gaps like rivers and roads. They are found on most continents except Antarctica