Which part of a fire spreads at the fastest rate?

The head of a fire is the most active and intense part of a wildfire where the flames are generally the largest and the heat is most concentrated. This area is where the fire is advancing rapidly, primarily due to the availability of fuel, wind direction, and topography. As flames spread towards the head, they are often pushed by prevailing winds, which can enhance the fire's rate of spread.

On the other hand, the flank and rear of the fire typically experience less intensity and slower rates of spread. The flank may catch up with the head eventually, but not at the same pace. The point of origin refers to where the fire started but does not account for the active spread; thus, it is not where the highest rates of fire activity occur. Therefore, focusing on the dynamics of fire movement, the head is where the fire spreads at the fastest rate, fueled by environmental factors and the accumulation of energy.