CONTOURS/COLORS:

For these graphics, colors represent the model calculated value of the Fosberg Index. The index represents expected flame length and fuel drying based on model output fields of temperature, wind and humidity. Large values of the FWI imply high flame lengths and rapid drying.

WIND BARBS

Evenly spaced on the map are wind barbs that indicate the strength and direction of the wind at 10m above the surface.

1 kt ~ 1.15 mph ~ 1.85 km/hr

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?

The Fosberg index is a tool for forecasters and land managers to interpret the impacts of small-scale/short term weather variations on fire potential. It is important for forecasters to determine which fires have the right atmospheric conditions to grow rapidly. Firefighter safety is the upmost concern along with preserving areas of development and to limit the reach of the fire. This index provides forecasters and land managers the ability to recognize which regions in the model output domain that have the greatest potential fire danger.