Spatio-temporal analysis of large wildfires in Serbia based on GIS and VIIRS remote sensing data
Abstract: The paper presents the results of spatio-temporal analysis of large wildfires in Serbia for the period 2012–2024, conducted using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) satellite data from NASA’s FIRMS (Fire Information for Resource Management System) platform. The research integrates fire radiative power (FRP) indicators with environmental and anthropogenic factors to examine patterns of wildfire occurrence and intensity. The results show that most wildfires occur between July and October, when vegetation is dry, temperatures are high, and precipitation is scarce, while a secondary peak is observed in April due to agricultural burning practices. At the municipal level, wildfires were recorded across diverse regions, with higher concentration in Vojvodina and Kosovo and Metohija, while large wildfires were absent in western and most of eastern Serbia. Research results highlight that areas at highest wildfire risk in Serbia are characterized by low to medium elevation, gentle slopes, southern exposure, moderate annual precipitation, and proximity to agricultural activities and human infrastructure. The integration of GIS and VIIRS remote sensing data provides valuable insights into the spatial and temporal dynamics of wildfires, supporting improved wildfire risk assessment and management.
engleski
2025
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Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 - Creative Commons Autorstvo 4.0 International License.
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode
Keywords: wildfires, remote sensing, GIS, environmental protection.