The South African Lowveld Fire Danger Index (LFDI) and Its Applicability in Greece

Abstract: The necessity for Greece to adopt a National Fire Danger Rating System that combines convenience and objectivity was the reason to analyze once again the suitability of the Lowveld Fire Danger Index (LFDI) applied in Greece. The analysis proved that LFDI is based on the Swedish Angstrom Index and it is structured on the shape of the Canadian Forest Fire Index. LFDI is related to the Rate of Spread (ROS) of the Greek forest fires and it is the same effective in predicting ROS like other well-known and long used, simple fire weather indices. LFDI’s maximum daily values serve as an indicator of the maximum possible burnt areas, while its 5 fire danger classes as an indicator of the average burnt area per fire. Due to its mathematical structure, modifications are possible for an even better adaptation to Greek physical conditions. Apparently, LFDI is also applicable in other extra tropical countries.

Key words: fire weather index, Lowveld, ROS

JEL codes: Q5