Contribution of biophysical and climate variables to the spatial distribution of wildfires in Iran

This study investigated the relationship between climate and biophysical variables in burned areas in Iran.The fire burned area(FBA)product(Fire CCI 5.1.1),land surface temperature(MOD11C3C),vegetation index(MOD13A1),and climate variables such as temperature,wind speed,relative humidity,and volumetric soil moisture from the ERA5 reanalysis dataset were used.Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between biophysical and climate variables and fire occurrence.The results show that FBA increased by 1.7 hectares/decade from 2001 to 2020.The high FBA in 2010(the black summer of Iran)was due to high temperatures and significant heatwaves that led to extensive wildfires.Although anthropogenic activities are considered a significant cause of wildfires,several variables,including increased temperatures,less precipitation,relative humidity,and wind speed and direction,contribute to the extent and occurrence of wildfires.The country’s FBA hotspot is in the Arasbaran region during the summer season.Temperature and relative humidity are the most significant variables influencing the occurrence of wildfires.The results show the vulnerability of Iran s forests and their high potential for fires.Considering the frequency of fire occurrences in Iran and the limited equipment,fire prevention plans should be carried out by applying proper management in high-risk regions.