Remote sensing as a tool for the prevention, monitoring and evaluation of fires and floods

Abstract

Di Bella, C.M., Posse, G., Beget, M.E., Fischer, M.A., Mari, N., Veron, S. (2008). Remote sensing as a tool for the prevention, monitoring and evaluation of fires and floods. Ecosistemas 17(3):39-52.

Fires and floods are among the most frequent perturbations that negatively affect human societies and natural resources. The availability of prevention,  monitoring  and  evaluation  systems  is  therefore  crucial  to  diminish  their  consequences.  Active  and  passive  remote  sensing instruments  are  a  valuable  tool  to  achieve  these  goals  because  they  provide  information  on  different  spatial  and  temporal  scales.  In  this article we review the progress experienced in the field of remote sensing of burnt or flooded areas, its predisposing conditions and its post perturbation dynamics. Special emphasis is given to the description of the strengths and weaknesses of some of currently available remote sensing products.