In a recent government meeting, officials from the California Office of Emergency Services (OES) and Cal Fire outlined significant advancements in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into emergency management and wildfire response strategies.

OES representatives highlighted the implementation of the Calabas Fire Integrated Real-time Intelligence System (FIRIS), which utilizes aerial mapping and plans to automate image analysis from aircraft. They also discussed deploying real-time language translation services at disaster recovery centers and employing AI to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of grant processes. The commitment to integrating AI technologies aims to improve planning, preparedness, and compliance in emergency management.

Philip Selig, Chief of the Fire Intelligence Program at Cal Fire, detailed how the agency is leveraging AI for wildfire detection and monitoring. A partnership with the University of California, San Diego, has led to the development of an AI tool that analyzes feeds from a network of high-definition cameras across California. This system can detect anomalies indicative of wildfires, often alerting emergency responders before 911 calls are made. Between September and December 2023, this AI detection system identified 190 wildfires, with some detected without any prior emergency calls.

Cal Fire is also utilizing AI for predictive modeling of wildfire behavior, moving beyond traditional methods that relied heavily on historical data. The agency's collaboration with Technoslva has resulted in the Wildfire Analyst tool, which employs machine learning to forecast fire spread and intensity by analyzing diverse data sets, including weather conditions and topography. This predictive capability not only aids in immediate response efforts but also helps assess long-term fire risks, contributing to a more resilient landscape.

The meeting underscored California's commitment to adopting innovative technologies in emergency management, positioning the state as a leader in utilizing AI for public safety and wildfire preparedness.