A Model for Predicting Lightning Fire Ignition in Wildland Fuels

摘要

A model for predicting the expected number of lightning-caused forest fire ignitions is described. The model is based on the physical processes involved in ignition of fine woody fuels by lightning and the chance occurrence of simultaneous events required for fire ignition. Input information includes lightning activity, upper air windspeed (storm movement), fuel moisture, and fuel bulk density. The model has been applied to the development of a lightning-fire occurrence index for the National Fire-Danger Rating System.