SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. —

Wildfire simulation programs are emerging as essential tools for understanding and forecasting fire behavior.

The rapidly advancing technology is especially critical in wildland–urban interface communities of the Sierra. According to Cal Fire Amador–El Dorado Unit Battalion Chief Bret Swearengin, many residents in these areas have only one road in and out of their neighborhoods; time is crucial when it comes to evacuations and containing wildfires.

Swearengin recently walked KCRA 3 through a wildfire simulation demonstration, explaining how these programs help firefighters quickly make life-saving decisions.

“You're showing up. You got eight acres. What are you thinking right now? That's life, property or environment,” said Swearingen, “So our number one prio

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