Step 1: Data Acquisition from NASA

Initially, FireImpactology queries information from NASA's Fire Information for Resource Management System (FIRMS). This step is crucial as it identifies active fire events and provides initial data such as location and intensity.
MODIS provides images with spatial resolutions ranging from 250 meters to 1 kilometer, depending on the spectral channel. Channels capable of identifying "hotspots" by surface temperature are used for fire detection.
VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) on the Suomi NPP and NOAA-20 satellites offers even higher resolution for certain applications, reaching 375 meters in specific channels, which allows for more precise identification and tracking of fires.

Step 2: Analyzing the Affected Area

Once a fire is detected, the system analyzes the affected area using the World Urban Database and Access Portal Tools (WUDAPT) Local Climate Zones (LCZ) classification, which provides detailed mapping at a high resolution of 100 meters. This classification distinguishes between four primary types of vegetation: 11 - Dense trees, 12 - Scattered trees, 13 - Bush, scrub, and 14 - Low plants. This vegetation data is essential for assessing the potential biomass and emissions from burning.
This vegetation data is essential for accurately estimating the biomass available for burning and the subsequent emissions that can affect air quality. This detailed information helps in tailoring response strategies and mitigating the environmental impact of fires.

Step 3: Historical and Forecast Meteorological Data Integration

The system retrieves historical meteorological data from the ERA5 reanalysis datasets, which offer global coverage with a 31 km resolution. For future forecasting, it uses the Global Forecast System (GFS), providing updates every three hours with a resolution of 13 km. This meteorological information helps project fire behavior and smoke dispersion patterns.

Step 4: Emission Estimation Using Gaussian Plume Model

Using the Gaussian plume model, FireImpactology estimates the mass of emissions released. Research indicates that one square kilometer of forest can emit approximately 25 tons of PM2.5 under moist conditions and 20 tons under dry conditions. These emission estimations are critical for understanding the volume of particulate matter released and its potential impact on air quality.

Step 5: Visualization and Interaction

The analytical results are visually displayed on an interactive Leaflet map. This map features a time-lapse player that illustrates the direction of wind and the subsequent distribution of smoke particles across the territory. Additionally, the system includes a sidebar menu that displays the Air Quality Index (AQI) based on US standards, providing users with immediate pollution level assessments and aiding in the planning of necessary response measures.