Building a One-Stop Shop for Arctic Observations

Article by:
Kristina Bär, Arctic Council Secretariat

Arctic observations provide an understanding of the rapidly changing region and can inform decisions and actions from the local to the global level. However, setting up a robust observation system that delivers tangible societal benefits is a complex undertaking. In this brief interview, Mikko Strahlendorff from the Finnish Meteorological Institute, provides an example of how observation needs for wildfires are identified and developed into practical tools.

SAON’s Arctic Roadmap for Observing and Data Systems (ROADS) is identifying priority areas for future observations. How are these being selected?

Future observation priorities are developed from the bottom up. Any community or institution, at the local, national, or global level can propose a phenomenon to be observed. The ROADS advisory panel reviews these proposals and provides guidance to help them mature by, for example, linking them to existing observing efforts. Our goal is to improve and sustain observing networks that integrate local, national and global observation needs.

For example, I’ve been involved in identifying wildfire-related observation needs. The Finnish Meteorological Institute issues warnings of very dry conditions that pose a wildfire risk, potentially leading to campfire bans. Our work is therefore of immediate interest on the national and regional level. But in order to better identify local observation needs, we decided to reach out to different local actors, such as the Sámi educational center in Inari and a local fire chief. Through discussions and workshops, we learned more about their fire knowledge and observation needs.

There are of course many parameters linked to fire that can be observed but we don’t want to duplicate efforts. Based on our discussions, we decided to focus on what we call ignition identification. This variable brings together different data sets that can inform fire departments and communities quickly about the type of fire and which action is needed.

How is Indigenous Knowledge included in defining observing requirements for wildfires?

Indigenous Peoples and local communities play a crucial role in identifying observables and contributing to their development. They are adept at reading their surroundings and understanding fire risks. Indigenous Peoples across the Arctic have experience from cultural burning practices and have used fire proactively in springtime to prevent uncontrollable fires later in the season.

They also help us understand land use, community locations and infrastructure that needs protection from wildfires. However, much of this information is also sensitive. Cultural burning practices, for example, have been banned for a long time, and communities practicing it today may not share it widely.

How do you foresee your work will contribute to future monitoring of fires in the Arctic?

With ignition identification recognized as a valuable observable, the next steps are developing the tools needed for meaningful observations and finding partners to implement sustainable practices.

Currently, we’re gathering data to demonstrate how this variable can inform action. Nowadays, data on ignition comes from various sources, including satellites, but also social media, and we are working on an app where people can share local parameters, such as humidity, dead fuel build-up, etc. in areas where they are hiking. All this information enhances our fire risk modeling capabilities.

At the moment, we are working on a demonstration project, which includes building modelling software and developing a scorecard. These tools will allow us to assess fire risks and to provide information to fire departments and municipalities to potentially mobilize their resources, issue warnings or evacuation orders.