New AI driven modeling is improving scientists ability to predict wildfire paths, volatility and more, the National Center for Atmospheric Research says. The modeling program, known as WRF-Fire, now accounts for beetle-kill, more accurately predicting combustable plant matter.

This model, depicting 2020’s East Troublesome Fire’s spread as viewed from Grand Lake, is the latest from a new AI driven modeling system known as WRF-Fire that the National Center for Atmospheric Research developed. NCAR scientists say the improved modeling system will increase their ability to predict wildfire paths, volatility and more by utilizing satellite imagery and AI to better understand variables like the scope of dead areas from pine beetle activity, general dryness and more.