Comparing the Fire Danger Rating Systems of Canada and the US: FWI versus NFDRS

The paper provides a comparative analysis of Canada's Fire Weather Index (FWI) and the USA's National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS). It highlights the FWI's strengths in using empirical data for a broad assessment of fire danger, while the NFDRS excels in modeling specific fire danger areas and considering live fuel moisture. The discussion focuses on the relative advantages and limitations of each system in relation to their respective vegetative conditions. Ultimately, the paper suggests that integrating the simplicity of the FWI with the NFDRS's detailed site descriptors could enhance both systems.