Technological Transformation in Wildfires: Drones, Robots, and Artificial Intelligence
While federal agencies are increasing the use of drones in wildfire responses, ground robots and artificial intelligence technologies are being tested in decision-making processes.
A technological transformation is underway in wildfire response processes. While federal agencies heavily use drones for real-time intelligence, mapping, and hazard mitigation, ground robots and artificial intelligence-based spread prediction systems are being tested.
Use of Drones in Fire Response
Fixed-wing drones can fly around the entire perimeter of wildfires to update maps and provide real-time intelligence to firefighters.
During the Sand Creek Fire in southwest Montana, rugged terrain and weakened trees posed hazards to crews, prompting managers to turn to unmanned aerial vehicles to detect heat sources.
Technological Roles of Federal Agencies
Federal agencies such as the United States Forest Service and the Federal Aviation Administration utilize drones to map fires, detect hotspots, and conduct controlled burns.
Forest Service press spokesperson Meredith Hollowell states that drones have become a critical tool providing real-time infrared imagery, while the Federal Aviation Administration emphasizes that these vehicles provide situational awareness in hazardous environments.
Ground Robots and Artificial Intelligence Tests
The Forest Service is testing unmanned ground vehicles capable of carrying equipment and heavy loads across rugged terrain, as seen in tests conducted in Georgia in June.
Researchers from the University of Idaho are conducting studies to predict fire behavior and spread rates by integrating thermal infrared data collected by drones with machine learning models.