Buildup index

It's a measure of the total fuel that could burn in deeper layers, reflecting how much dry fuel has accumulated over time and the potential for intense, sustained fires.

The buildup index is heavily influenced by:

• Duff moisture code: The buildup index incorporates the duff moisture code, reflecting the moisture content of the moderately deep organic layers.

• Drought code: The buildup index also incorporates the drought code, which represents the long-term drying of deeper, heavier fuels.

• Prolonged dry periods: The buildup index accumulates the effect of extended periods without significant rainfall.

• Time: It is a slow responding index, which means it takes a long time for the value to change.

The buildup index is a key indicator of the potential for significant fuel consumption and intense fires. It helps predict the potential for sustained burning and the difficulty of fire suppression. A high buildup index indicates a large amount of available fuel, which can lead to more intense and longer-lasting fires.

The buildup index is a crucial component of fire weather index systems. It provides an assessment of the total fuel available for burning, allowing fire managers to predict the potential for intense, long-duration fires. A high buildup index indicates a greater risk of these intense, sustained fires, while a low buildup index suggests a lower risk.