Work

Analysis, Characterization, and Mapping of Regional Wildfire Patterns in the Wildland–Urban Interface of the State of Tocantins, Brazil

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Mapping wildfire patterns in Wildland–Urban Interface (WUI) areas is a fundamental tool for fire management and prevention, particularly in regions where urban expansion occurs in close proximity to natural vegetation. This mapping approach makes it possible to identify critical zones and to support more effective interventions adapted to the specific conditions of each territory. This work analyzed wildfires in the state of Tocantins, Brazil, using detailed geospatial data and advanced analysis techniques and statistics to characterize the dynamics of burned areas. Data used for the project were retrieved from MapBiomas and the Geoprocessing Laboratory of the Public Ministry of Tocantins (LABGEO), applying logistic regression models to explore the relationship between the distance of WUIs and the frequency of wildfires. The methodology covered the spatial distribution of fires and the different dynamics observed by type and size of burned area, allowing for a more detailed analysis. The results indicated significant variations in the proportion of burned areas inside and outside the WUIs, suggesting that proximity to these interfaces plays a critical role in the occurrence pattern of fires. Notably, Palmas, the state capital, stood out as one of the municipalities with the highest concentration of impacts in WUI areas, highlighting the relevance of these zones in environmental risk management. The study emphasizes the importance of adopting regional approaches that consider local specificities in the management and prevention of wildfires. The integration of geospatial data with robust statistical methodologies can guide more effective management strategies, assisting in the planning of public policies adapted to the socio-environmental dynamics of Tocantins.

Source: Fire

DOI: 10.3390/fire9060261

Authors: Izabella Downar Bakalarczyk, Mário Augusto Pires Vaz, Ygor Freitas de Almeida

Institutions: Universidade do Porto, Institute of Mechanical Engineering and Industrial Mangement

Language: English

Topic: Fire effects on ecosystems

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life on land, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896