Understanding fire intensity in the Sudanian savannah of Western Africa: Implications for sustainable fire management

Abstract

Abstract The savannah ecosystem is influenced by seasonal fires that shape the landscape, with different fire intensities. The objective of this study is to assess the trend in fire intensity and the influence of the vegetation types. A linear regression model was employed to analyse the trend in fire intensity over the years. The results demonstrate a linear positive evolution of mean fire intensity over the years, with the highest fire intensity observed during the months of November to January. Woodland, shrub savannah and grassland areas exhibited high fire intensity, whereas wetland areas and forests displayed low fire intensity. Overall, remote sensing techniques can facilitate the monitoring of fire events, specifically fire intensity, in the savannah regions of West Africa, thereby aiding in the implementation of appropriate fire management plans.