Surface Fire

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Wildfire Knowledge Graph · Fire Behaviour

Working definition

Fire that burns loose litter, low vegetation, small fuels and other combustible material close to the ground surface.

In plain language

Most wildland fires include surface combustion, but surface fire can transition into shrubs or tree crowns when fuel continuity and conditions allow.

Why it matters

The fuel layer carrying the fire affects spread, flame geometry, spotting and treatment options.

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Tecnobosque explanation reviewed 12 September 2026. Source definitions are authoritative within their stated jurisdiction; the explanatory text above is an independent technical synthesis.