None of the data on the map is 'real time'.
Note: This is not a typical map legend that is a single graphic image that has a list of all the symbology you see on the map. Instead, this legend is text combined with links to legend graphics that are hosted on various GIS servers. Also, some layers do not have legend graphics. Other layers display symbols that are all the same.
Tip:The basemap button is next to the "Menu" button. Use the basemap button to turn overlays on/off. This will make it easy to see what symbols go with what overlays. Remember - only the 'top' layer is clickable. Don't know what 'top' means? Please read the map tips page.
MODIS/VIIRS satellite heat detection within prior 7 days
Triangle = MODIS (less accurate)
Square = VIIRS (more accurate)
The colors show when heat was detected.
Dark red: Less than 6 hours ago
Red: From 6 to 12 hours ago
Orange: From 12 to 24 hours ago
Yellow: From 24 hours ago to 7 days
There is a total of 8 MODIS/VIIRS satellite passes each 24 hours. The MODIS/VIIRS data can appear on the map within 20 minutes of when the satellite detects a heat source.
Satellite hotspot locations are approximate. A MODIS hotspot represents a box 1,000 meters (~0.62 miles) by 1,000 meters. The actual detection could be anywhere inside that box. A VIIRS hotspot represents a box 375 meters (~0.23 miles) by 375 meters.
A satellite hotspot can be a 'false positive' when (1) the fire is near the edge of the 'strip' of land that the satellite sees and (2) there is heavy smoke with hot embers. High wind can also be a factor in 'false positive' hotspots being detected. Likewise, an area can burn and never show up on the map as a hotspot. This can happen when a grassy area burns just after a satellite pass and then cools before the next satellite pass.
CA M3 hotspots last 24 hours
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The M3 hotspot data is developed from a variety of satellite data and there will be some differences compared to the MODIS/VIIRS data. For more information see https://cwfis.cfs.nrcan.gc.ca/background/summary/fm3
CA active fires
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CA fire perimeter
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CA current fire danger
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CA fire control difficulty
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CA fire Weather Index
Legend
CA air average fine matter (26)
Legend - scroll down to (26)
CA air peak fine matter (27)
Legend - scroll down to (27)
CA drought code
Legend
For more information to help you get the most benefit from the GISsurfer wildland fire map, please visit the map tips page.