Wildfire Knowledge Graph · Fire Behaviour
A separate fire ignited outside the main perimeter by transported firebrands or other fire transfer.
In plain language
A spot fire begins as a distinct ignition ahead of or beyond the main fire and may later merge with it.
Why it matters
Spot fires complicate perimeter mapping, containment and evacuation because fire can appear beyond expected barriers.
What is a spot fire?
A spot fire is a separate fire ignited outside the perimeter of the main fire by a transported firebrand. The process that carries those embers or burning fragments ahead of the fire is called spotting.
Why spot fires matter
- They can ignite beyond roads, rivers, firelines or other control features.
- They can create new areas of active fire ahead of the main perimeter.
- Multiple spot fires can complicate perimeter mapping and suppression.
- Their occurrence depends on firebrand generation, transport and successful ignition in receptive fuel.
A spot fire should not be confused with a spot fire technique used in prescribed burning; that is a deliberate ignition pattern and a different term.
Official reference: NWCG — spot fire.
Related: Spotting, Embers and Spot Fires Explained · Firebrand.