New Clemson AI tool uses RGB images to help firefighters track wildfire heat

New Clemson AI tool uses RGB images to help firefighters track wildfire heat

New Clemson AI tool uses RGB images to help firefighters track wildfire heat

https://wpde.com/news/local/new-clemson-ai-tool-uses-rgb-images-to-help-firefighters-track-wildfire-heat

Publish Date: 2026-03-13 23:39:00

Source Domain: wpde.com

  • Innovative AI Tool: Clemson University researchers, led by Fatemah Afghah, have developed an AI tool that uses regular color images (RGB) to detect dangerous heat inside wildfires.

  • Pattern Recognition in Images: The AI models created by Afghah’s team are trained on both RGB images and thermal images collected from previous controlled burns.

  • Temperature Estimation: The technology can estimate fire temperature using only RGB images, eliminating the need for thermal cameras.

  • Reduced Field Efforts and Data: This method reduces the number of steps required in the field and lowers data transmission burdens for first responders.

  • Cost Efficiency: The approach is notably cheaper compared to traditional methods, especially beneficial for using drones to track and combat wildfires.

  • Hidden Hotspots Detection: The AI can identify hidden hotspots under vegetation or smoke, aiding fire officials in better managing wildfires.