A new algorithm for burned area map from AWiFS and MODIS images

This paper presents a new algorithm that synergistically combines data from three different parts of the spectrum (near-, shortwave-and thermalinfrared) to produce reliable burned area maps. It is based on the use of a variation of the BAlM (Burned Area Index) together with hotspot information. In particular, the study presented herein uses an image from the A WiFS (Advanced Wide Field Sensor) sensor dated on the 21st ofAugust 2006, MODIS (MODerate resolution Imaging Spectrometer) hotspot detected during the first twenty days of August as well as ancillary maps and information. Developed methodology was tested in Galicia (North-West Spain) where hundreds of forest fires occurred during the first twenty days ofAugust 2006. Burned area maps and results were validated using fire statistics from both the Spanish Ministry of Environment and the Galician Forest Service. Reached results showed that this method would be of great interest at regional to national scales, since it was proved to be quick, accurate and cost-effective.