Using satellite images to monitor burned areas in Madagascar

Abstract

Mapping the extent of fire-affected areas is very important for integrated fire management, especially for stakeholder communication and mobilization, rehabilitation of burned areas, and decision making. A prerequisite to planning fire response strategies requires accurate quantitative data on when and where fires occur. This article reports on a study carried out in 2021 over an area of 1,575 ha in and around Ankarafantsika National Park in northwestern Madagascar using satellite images, drone images and ground-truth data to assess the accuracy and usefulness of mapping in quantifying burned areas. During that year, 13,073 ha were burned in the park (about 10% of its total area). Based on the successful use of satellite mapping data, the REAFMRC geoportal is being extended to cover all East African countries.