What is meant by elevation in the context of wildland fire behavior?

In the context of wildland fire behavior, elevation refers to the height of the terrain above sea level. This measurement is important because elevation can significantly influence fire behavior and characteristics. As elevation increases, several environmental factors can change, including temperature, humidity, and vegetation types. Generally, temperatures tend to be cooler at higher elevations, which may affect how a fire spreads and the moisture content of the vegetation.

Additionally, the elevation can impact wind patterns and precipitation, both of which play critical roles in fire dynamics. Understanding elevation helps fire managers predict potential fire behavior in different terrains and make informed decisions regarding fire suppression strategies and resource allocation.