Modification of the microclimate and fire danger by Berg winds in the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

ABSTRACT Wildfires have the potential to result in significant loss of life and property damage. Mountain wave flow events (Berg winds) are integrally linked to periods of enhanced fire danger. The basis for enhanced fire danger during periods of mountain winds has long been established, supported by evidence from a number of case studies. A fuzzy logic model, applied to hourly meteorological data from four different sites varying in elevation, allowed for an in-depth study of the effects of Berg winds on the microclimate and fire danger. Results indicate that night-time Berg wind events occur less frequently than daytime events, also having a significantly reduced influence on the microclimate. Daytime Berg wind events were shown to result in a significant change in the microclimate and fire danger across all sites. Night-time Berg wind events did not result in significant change to air temperature and relative humidity but when combined with significant changes to wind speed did result in significant increases in fire danger. The sensitivity of the Lowveld Fire Danger Index was also tested. The study emphasizes the need for boundary layer processes such as Berg winds to be taken into account when forecasting and monitoring fire danger.