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In 2022, the California Fire Dynamics Experiment (CalFiDE) became the first study to gather real-time data on active wildfires, providing critical insights into fire behavior, smoke chemistry, and weather impacts. The research led by NOAA and CU Boulder’s CIRES focused on five wildfires, including California’s Mosquito Fire, the largest of the year. This groundbreaking study could lead to vast improvements in fire weather forecasting.

Revolutionizing Fire Forecasting 

Using aircraft and mobile ground units, the team captured unprecedented data on fire intensity, wind patterns, and smoke plumes. A key discovery was high ozone levels in wildfire smoke, even when sunlight—a critical factor for ozone formation—was primarily blocked. This finding challenges current understanding and offers new avenues for improving air quality models. 

Why It Matters 

CalFiDE’s insights are already enhancing fire forecasting, helping first responders better predict wildfire spread and intensity. “This data is invaluable,” said CIRES scientist Brian Carroll. “It’s improving our understanding of wildfires and making models more reliable for real-world use.” 

As CalFiDE closes knowledge gaps, it enables smarter, safer wildfire responses and brings science to the flames to help communities better prepare for wildfires.