Wildfires 4 markers Flashcards
What are the 3 causes of wildfires?
Oxygen, heat and fuel
Can wild fires be caused by humans?
90% of wildfires are caused by humans
Why are wildfires becoming more frequent?
Due to climate change and global warming
What changes in the atmosphere can aid the formation of wildfires?
Low precipitation and high temperatures, drought
What are sources of heat for wildfires?
1- Weather (lightning)
2- Lava flows/ volcanos
3- Broken Glass
4- Sparks form rockfalls
5- Agricultural fires
6- Humans: Arson, power lines, camp fires, cigarettes
What are sources of fuel for wild fires?
1- Vegetation
2- Houses/ infrastructure
3- Oil/ fuel
4- Trees shrub bushes
5- The ground itself, humus peat
6- Human waste
7- Areas of human activity eg logging camps
What’s the definition of a wild fire?
A fire that becomes uncontrollable and hazardous, rapidly spreading through wild landscapes
What is a positive of wildfires?
They can clear canopies so sunlight can reach seedlings and can get rid of diseased plants and harmful insects
What are surface wildfires?
Spread with a flaming front and burn leaf litter, fallen branches and other fuels at ground level, burn fairly quickly
What are ground fires?
Burn organic matter in the soil beneath surface matter and are sustained by glowing combustion
What are crown fires?
Burn through the top layer of foliage on the tree, are known as canopy or crown fires. Most intense fires and are the most difficult to contain. Need strong winds, steep slopes and heavy fuel load to continue burning.
How does humidity affect wildfires?
When humidity is above 15%, the risk of wildfire is low, but below 7% the risk is much higher
