Recent LA Wildfires and Tech’s Role

Saving lives!

Estimated reading time: 12 minutes

Los Angeles is once again in crisis. The dry landscape, intensified by months without rain, has turned into kindling, and strong winds have turned routine wildfire seasons into catastrophic events. The worst part is that we’ve been here before, and we’ll be here again.

Over the past week, relentless flames have wiped out thousands of buildings, forcing entire neighborhoods to evacuate in the middle of the night. Families have lost homes, firefighters are stretched to their limits, and the air is thick with smoke. The numbers are high, but the real concern lies beneath the surface. What actually started these fires? Could they have been avoided? And more importantly, how can we prevent the next one?

While fire crews battle the blazes on the ground, researchers, engineers, and data scientists are working behind the scenes, using artificial intelligence, satellite tracking, and predictive modeling to understand wildfires better. From early detection systems to smart power grids designed to prevent electrical sparks, technology is making progress in ways we haven’t seen before.

But is it enough? Let’s explore how technology is both a culprit and a savior in the ongoing fires.

Tech-induced Fires

Here are some recent examples and incidents where technology has contributed to fires:

Electrical Power Lines and Equipment

Power lines and electrical equipment have been linked to many fires. For example, there’s an ongoing investigation into the Eaton Fire, where residents are suing Southern California Edison. They argue that sparks from the power lines started the fire. There’s video footage, photos, and witness accounts that seem to back up this claim, showing that the fire might have been caused by equipment from Edison International and Southern California Edison. However, Edison disagrees, saying their analysis didn’t find any electrical problems before the fire.

Wildfires
Aging power lines spark dangerous wildfires. Source: Axios

The number of fires caused by electrical equipment has raised concerns about California’s aging power lines and equipment. Many of the state’s worst fires have been traced back to electrical issues, with eight of the top 20 most destructive fires linked to power problems.

Exhaust System

The Mays Fire in San Saba and McCulloch Counties in Texas started on August 1, when a person parked their vehicle over dry grass. The heat from the vehicle’s exhaust system ignited the grass, leading to a blaze that has since burned an estimated 9,500 acres. As the fire spread, it was about 50% contained.

Wildfires
Hot exhaust + dry grass = disaster. Source: KXXV

The heat from vehicles is a major fire risk, especially when conditions are dry. Karen Stafford, the Texas A&M Forest Service Prevention Program Coordinator, emphasized the danger, saying, “Grasses across the state are quickly drying out and are more susceptible to fire ignitions. Even something as simple as parking on tall, dry grass can start a wildfire in these conditions.”

Technology and machinery, like vehicle exhaust systems, can reach incredibly high temperatures, between 1200 and 1600 degrees. According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, dry grass can catch fire at just 500 degrees.

Water Consumption of ChatGPT

A major factor contributing to the state’s water crisis is the growing water consumption by industries like AI, which rely on data centers to function. One example is the water consumption of ChatGPT, which uses 519 milliliters of water to write a 100-word email. If millions of people used AI services like this regularly, the water usage could quickly become unsustainable.

The reason AI consumes so much water is because data centers rely on cooling systems to keep servers from overheating. These systems, often cooling towers, need large amounts of water to function. As AI’s use grows, so does its strain on water resources, particularly in areas already facing water shortages.

ChatGPT water consumption
Data centers are thirsty. Source: Fortune

Companies like Microsoft and Google are reporting rising water consumption as a result of AI. Microsoft saw a 34% increase in water use between 2021 and 2022, and Google also reported a similar rise. This growing concern over water use has led to criticism and calls for more sustainable AI development.

Experts, including Shaolei Ren, a UC Riverside professor, warn that AI’s increasing demand for water could lead to tensions with local communities, especially in drought-prone regions. There’s a need for AI companies to find ways to reduce water usage and address the environmental challenges posed by AI’s rapid growth.

How Satellites Help with Wildfires

Satellites track wildfires by identifying dry areas that are at risk, spotting active fires, and monitoring how they spread. They also measure smoke, gas emissions, and burned areas to assess damage. This data helps emergency teams, allowing them to act quickly to contain fires and protect communities.

There are two main types of satellites used for wildfire monitoring:

  • Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellites: These orbit at altitudes below 1,000 kilometers (620 miles). They capture detailed images of fire locations, but since they move quickly, they only pass over the same area briefly.
  • Geostationary Satellites: These orbit at 36,000 kilometers (22,000 miles) and stay fixed over one area. They provide continuous updates, making them useful for real-time tracking, though their images are less detailed than LEO satellites.
Wildfires
Eyes in the sky tracking fire threats. Source: Skyrora

Fire Prevention

Organizations are now working to improve satellite monitoring. Some main developments include:

  • The European Space Agency (ESA) uses satellites to detect dry conditions, monitor active fires, and measure smoke and gas emissions.
  • The Earth Fire Alliance (EFA) is developing a new set of low-orbit satellites with high-resolution sensors. These will detect even small fires before they spread. The goal is to launch 55 satellites, allowing global fire monitoring every 20 minutes.
  • OroraTech, a Germany-based company, recently launched nanosatellites with heat sensors that send fire alerts. These small satellites help detect fires in remote areas that are difficult to monitor.

The Challenge of Managing Satellite Data

Satellites gather huge amounts of information, making it hard to process everything quickly. To handle this, scientists are using artificial intelligence to sort through the data and identify fire risks faster. AI can analyze images, detect patterns, and send alerts to emergency teams before fires grow out of control.

Use of AI

Experts are turning to artificial intelligence to stay ahead of them to predict where fires might start to spot smoke before it spreads.

Predicting Fire Paths

Scientists at the University of Southern California have developed an AI model designed to predict how wildfires will spread. The system, called cWGAN, was first tested with simulated data before being trained on real fires in California between 2020 and 2022. It analyzes weather, terrain, and fuel sources to create better fire forecasts.

With fires becoming more unpredictable, knowing where they might spread next can make a major difference.

Cameras

AI-powered cameras are now being used to detect wildfires before they get out of control. Austin Energy has set up 13 high-definition cameras across Central Texas that scan the landscape 24/7. If they detect smoke, they immediately alert firefighters with location data and live images.

AI cameras
Smart cameras spot smoke before it’s too late. Source: GeekWire

Marcus Hernandez from Cal Fire says their program, Alert California, is using a similar system. More than 1,100 high-elevation cameras across the state now come with AI smoke detection. “With over 1,000 cameras, it could be difficult for humans to monitor, but it provides great situational awareness,” Hernandez explains. The cameras scan the area every two minutes and can spot smoke from up to 120 miles away on clear nights.

Sensors and Drones

AI is also being built into sensor networks that could run for years on batteries or solar power. Brad Listerman, CEO of PriviNet, is working on a system that uses infrared sensors, heat detectors, and IoT devices to detect early signs of fire. “Unless you’re going to have WiFi or 5G everywhere, you need low-powered sensors on the ground,” Listerman says.

drones
High-tech tools for early fire detection. Source: IT Brief Australia

Drones are another important tool. Fire crews are using them to track fire movement, assess damage, and help first responders handle dangerous areas. While strong winds can make drone use difficult, trained pilots know when to deploy them for the best results.

AI and Satellite Data

IBM and NASA have teamed up to create an AI model that helps analyze past wildfires using satellite data. The goal is to better understand fire patterns and eventually predict future risks.

Cal Fire is using similar technology. Their remote sensing program uses AI to process thermal imaging, fire perimeter data, and satellite assessments. Hernandez says these tools help fire analysts get real-time updates and monitor changing weather conditions.

Tech Companies

Wildfires in California have been a major concern, and as the threat grows, leading tech and telecom companies are offering their support. Here’s a look at how they’re making a difference:

Verizon

Verizon is giving customers in wildfire-affected counties like Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Diego free calls, texts, and data until January 18, 2025. This applies to both prepaid and postpaid customers, as well as people using brands like Straight Talk and Tracfone.

Verizon is also handling network disruptions caused by power outages. They’re working with public agencies to bring in portable generators and restore service as quickly as possible.

AT&T

AT&T is offering unlimited talk, text, and data to customers in affected areas through February 6, 2025. They’ve also waived fees for new wireline service requests through January 7, 2026.

The company is using portable generators to keep both wireless and wireline networks running during power outages. AT&T’s FirstNet Response Operations Group is also providing first responders with portable communication devices to stay connected in disaster zones.

T-Mobile

T-Mobile has already restored service to about half of the sites hit by power outages and is deploying portable generators in key locations like Malibu, Calabasas, and Agoura Hills.

Wildfires
Keeping communities connected during wildfires. Source: T-Mobile

Through its partnership with Starlink, T-Mobile is providing emergency wireless alerts and making 911 texting possible. They’re also offering free Wi-Fi and device charging at certain retail locations to help communities stay online.

Google

Google has activated SOS Alerts and Public Alerts on Google Search and Maps to keep users updated about evacuation orders and fire-related news. They’ve added wildfire boundary maps, road closure details, and emergency shelter locations to Waze to assist people in affected areas.

To support recovery efforts, Google.org is funding relief operations and matching employee donations.

Amazon

Amazon has set up a 24/7 operation to monitor the wildfires and guide its logistics. The company is collaborating with organizations like the American Red Cross and World Central Kitchen to send supplies from its Wildfire Relief Hub.

Amazon is also using its AWS cloud services to provide situational awareness, offering emergency teams access to aerial imagery. Over 6,000 essential items have already been donated.

SpaceX

SpaceX is deploying free Starlink terminals in wildfire-affected areas of Los Angeles. Unlike traditional cell networks, Starlink uses satellite connections, ensuring service stays up even in areas where cell towers have been damaged.

Starlink is offering free internet service to residents in affected areas until February 10, 2025. Customers can activate the service through the “Disaster Relief” plan, and those with damaged equipment can request free replacements.

First responders are also being provided with Starlink kits to support their communications efforts.

Spectrum (Charter Communications)

Spectrum has opened over 35,000 public Wi-Fi hotspots throughout California. This makes it easy for anyone to connect, even if they’re not a Spectrum customer. This is especially helpful for displaced residents and emergency workers who need reliable internet access.

NASA

NASA is using satellite technology to track the wildfires. Tools like ECOSTRESS help monitor the fires’ movement, surface temperatures, and behavior, providing vital data to emergency responders on the ground.

The Fight Against Wildfires

Wildfire season has become year-round. Cal Fire’s Hernandez says public awareness is just as important as technology in preventing fires. “Years ago, we started talking about how fire season is year-round. We are seeing that now.”

While tech can help to some extent, with extreme weather conditions and dry landscapes, experts say technology alone isn’t enough. Preparedness and quick action are still the most important factors in saving lives and stopping wildfires before they spread.

Stay tuned for more similar updates, and head over to Inside Tech World today!

FAQs

How do satellites detect wildfires?

Satellites track temperature changes, smoke patterns, and fire movement. They use thermal imaging and sensors to identify heat signatures and map fire paths.

What role does artificial intelligence play in wildfire prediction?

AI models predict wildfire spread by analyzing weather patterns, terrain, and available fuel. It helps responders take preventive actions and understand fire risks.

Are there any risks with using drones to monitor wildfires?

Yes, drones face challenges like strong winds and limited battery life, but when used properly, they offer real-time data for better fire management.

How does water usage for AI affect wildfire prevention?

Data centers require significant water for cooling, and as AI grows, its demand for water increases, putting a strain on regions already experiencing water shortages.

Why are power lines linked to wildfires?

Faulty power lines and electrical equipment can cause sparks, especially in dry conditions, leading to wildfires. Aging infrastructure increases this risk.


- Advertisement -

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Follow us for latest news!

- Advertisement -

Latest News

- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -