Researchers plan to have these models ready in the near future so they can be used to help fire professionals more effectively fight fires, train firefighters or plan strategies to prevent catastrophic fire conditions. Fire behavior is driven by local weather conditions such as winds, temperature and moisture. The RAMS model, originally developed at Colorado State University, uses data from all over the country to predict weather parameters.
RAMS then translates the information into smaller and smaller geographical areas.
The combined modeling system is the first step in predicting the actual progression and heat release of a wildfire. By investigating, understanding and modeling the fundamental principles of fire, the researchers can build models that more accurately predict wildfire behavior. To develop the model, Los Alamos scientists are working with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, U.S. Forest Service, and Kennedy Space Center personnel, all of whom have provided real-world wildfire expertise and fire measurements to the research team. Operated by the University of California for the National Nuclear Security Administration , of the US Department of Energy.