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An ALERTCalifornia camera in Cohasset, California, captured this view in July of the approaching Park Fire, the state’s largest wildfire of 2024. (Image courtesy of ALERTCalifornia, University of California San Diego)
10 Jan 2025

AI cameras are monitoring the hills of southern California for wildfire flareups

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In response to the recent 27,000-acre wildfire near Los Angeles, California firefighters are employing advanced technologies to enhance their firefighting efforts. One such innovation is the ALERTCalifornia project, which utilizes a network of over 1,140 AI-powered cameras across the state to detect wildfires early. 

This system recently enabled Orange County to contain a fire to less than a quarter-acre. 

 

Photo Credit: An ALERTCalifornia camera in Cohasset, California, captured this view in July of the approaching Park Fire, the state’s largest wildfire of 2024. (Image courtesy of ALERTCalifornia, University of California San Diego)

 

Business Insider

 

Startups like Pano AI are also contributing to early fire detection. Pano's system, Pano Rapid Detect, integrates ultra-high-definition cameras, satellite data, field sensors, and other data feeds to detect fires more rapidly. This technology has been deployed to assist fire agencies battling blazes in multiple states across the western United States, as well as in Australia and Canada. 

ASCE

 

In addition to AI-driven detection systems, aerial resources play a critical role in combating wildfires. Water bomber planes, helicopters, and aircraft from both the U.S. Forest Service and private sector partners like Coulson Aviation are deployed to drop water and fire retardant on active fires. 

Business Insider

 

Despite these technological advancements, traditional manual efforts on the ground remain essential. Firefighters continue to create firebreaks, clear vegetation, and protect structures to contain and extinguish wildfires effectively.

The integration of AI-powered detection systems, aerial resources, and ground crews represents a comprehensive approach to wildfire management, aiming to protect lives and property more efficiently.

AI and Technology Enhance California's Wildfire Detection

Business Insider

AI cameras are watching the California hills to detect the spread of wildfires

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ASCE

Artificial intelligence detects fires early, protecting people and ...

NBC Los Angeles

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