What is a "hot spot" in wildfire terminology?

In wildfire terminology, a "hot spot" refers to an area with high heat intensity that has the potential to reignite or spread a fire. This term is critical for understanding fire behavior and management strategies. Hot spots often indicate pockets of severe heat, often due to smoldering remnants of a fire that can easily flare up if conditions change, such as with an increase in wind or a drop in humidity. Recognizing these areas is vital for firefighting efforts since they may require additional attention to ensure they do not contribute to the re-establishment or expansion of a wildfire.

The importance of identifying hot spots lies in their potential threat to both containment lines and surrounding areas. Effective monitoring and suppression strategies are necessary to address these areas and protect resources, properties, and lives from unexpected flare-ups.