A0430
Title: Analyzing summer wildfire patterns in Italian municipalities using satellite data
Authors: Crescenza Calculli - University of Bari, Italy (Italy) [presenting]
Alessio Pollice - University of Bari (Italy)
Lorena Ricciotti - University of Bari (Italy)
Abstract: The current availability of remote sensing technologies and access to large amounts of high-resolution satellite imagery have significantly enhanced wildfire monitoring and facilitated the refinement of localized firefighting strategies. Utilizing the fire (thermal anomalies) indicator acquired from NASA/MODIS instruments, a comprehensive spatial analysis is proposed for wildfire patterns across the Italian municipalities for the entire summer season of 2023. Modeling and predicting the occurrence of wildfires represent a complex challenge due to the broad range of spatial and temporal scales involved in wildfire processes, contributing to their nonlinear nature. Therefore, one of the most promising advancements in wildfire assessment is integrating spatial data into models that address the change of support problem, allowing for the combination and aggregation of point- and area-level analyses. The proposed investigation of zero-inflated wildfire counts for the municipalities allows for capturing local variability, highlighting the specific impacts of environmental and socio-economic drivers on the distribution of wildfires. Finally, the difficulties involved in integrating and consolidating data are recognized for local and regional analyses. Acknowledging these challenges can increase the likelihood that future monitoring endeavors will be adapted or planned to better incorporate data from multiple sources.
