A few days ago, while browsing the Malagis GIS group, someone asked if there was a source to download global wildfire data. At that time, I didn’t have relevant resources on hand. After doing some research, I found NASA FIRMS, a website that supports GIS visualization of data and allows online downloads for viewing and analysis in software like ArcGIS and QGIS. Today, I’d like to share this resource with everyone.
What is NASA FIRMS?
FIRMS (Fire Information for Resource Management System) is a free web mapping service launched by NASA, providing global fire point (hotspot) information in "near real-time." It utilizes satellite sensors for wildfire monitoring, environmental protection, and disaster response. Currently, the primary data sources are:
- MODIS sensor (onboard Terra/Aqua satellites), with a resolution of approximately 1 km, widely used for global fire monitoring.
- VIIRS sensor (onboard Suomi-NPP, NOAA-20/21, and other satellites), with a resolution of up to 375 meters, capable of detecting smaller and lower-temperature fire points.
Based on my tests, data for most regions is typically updated within 3 hours after satellite overpass. Data for the United States and Canada is closer to real-time, which is expected since it’s their system.
Key Features
(一) GIS-based wildfire map visualization: Each red dot represents an active fire point. Clicking on it reveals detailed information such as specific coordinates, detection time, and satellite source. Note: Not every point indicates an actual wildfire; any thermal anomaly is reported. For example, the red dot in Wuhan shown below:
This is the location of Wuhan Iron and Steel Corporation—definitely not a wildfire, just a thermal anomaly.
(二) Data download: Supports export in various formats including SHP, KML, TXT, and WMS, making it convenient for GIS professionals to analyze, map, or integrate data into their monitoring platforms.
Both real-time and historical data are available for download.
(三) Open API: Provides API interfaces to easily integrate real-time fire data into custom applications or decision support systems. Note: The API may not be accessible from within China; users will need to find their own solutions.
Additionally, the official website offers a series of tutorials and guides, including Python and Colab data analysis tutorials, to help users deeply explore the scientific value behind wildfire data. In summary, the platform is beginner-friendly in terms of accessibility and usability, making it a great test case for GIS learning.
Official Website and Data Download Links
GIS Interactive Map: https://firms.modaps.eosdis.nasa.gov/map/
GIS Data Download: https://firms.modaps.eosdis.nasa.gov/active_fire/
Main Applications
Rapid Emergency Response: Assists firefighting and forestry departments in quickly locating fire sources and assessing fire spread trends, providing valuable time for disaster response.
Scientific Research and Environmental Protection: Used for studying wildfire patterns, carbon emission calculations, ecosystem evolution, and even the impact of climate change on fire frequency.
Environmental Monitoring in Conflict Zones: FIRMS data has been used to monitor fire dynamics in conflict areas such as Ukraine and Tigray, serving as an important tool for assessing environmental damage during wartime.
Final Thoughts
Lastly, I’d like to know if there are similar specialized websites in China. If anyone has information, please feel free to share in the comments. Thank you!