Treesearch
‘Megafire’ - You may not like it, but you cannot avoid it
| Authors: | Grant D. Linley, Chris J. Jolly, Tim S. Doherty, William L. Geary, Dolors Armenteras, Claire M. Belcher, Rebecca Bliege Bird, Andrea Duane, Michael-Shawn Fletcher, Melisa A. Giorgis, Angie Haslem, Gavin M. Jones, Luke T. Kelly, Calvin K. F. Lee, Rachael H. Nolan, Catherine L. Parr, Juli G. Pausas, Jodi N. Price, Adrian Regos, Euan G. Ritchie, Julien Ruffault, Grant J. Williamson, Qianhan Wu, Dale G. Nimmo |
| Year: | 2025 |
| Type: | Scientific Journal |
| Station: | Rocky Mountain Research Station |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1111/geb.70032 |
| Source: | Global Ecology and Biogeography. 34(4): e70032. |
Download (PDF 283 KB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/80660.pdf
Abstract
The term ‘megafire’ is increasingly used to describe large fires worldwide. We proposed a size-based definition of megafire - fires exceeding 10,000 ha arising from single or multiple related ignition events. A recent perspective in Global Ecology and Biogeography argues against a size-based definition of megafire and suggest that the term is too emotive for scientific use. We highlight that many scientific terms originate from common terms. These terms are often defined once they enter the scientific lexicon, enhancing both scientific understanding and public communication. We argue that standardised definitions facilitate better prediction, preparation, and management of fire events.