Characterization of a new burnt using remote sensing in the Cocó State Park, Metropolitan Region of Fortaleza/CE, Brazil

Abstract

Forest fires in Cocó State Park (PEC) are becoming more frequent, raising concerns about the future of the park due to anthropogenic pressures and a lack of management. This study used remote sensing to characterize a new fire in the PEC to improve post-fire monitoring and management. MODIS and VIIRS heat spot data identified the event on January 18, 2024. PlanetScope satellite images delimited the scar and derived pre- and post-burn NDVI to determine severity categories. MODIS and VIIRS detected the fire for 2 days, reaching an FRP of 35.66 MW, indicating its intensity. The scar had an area of 16.16 ha and a perimeter of 2.43 km. The post-burn NIR reflectance decreased by 57.6%, and the maximum dNDVI was 0.83. 51,21% of the area showed moderate-high severity. The scar may have affected humid environments and mangrove forests. The affected area is designated as a "Preservation Zone", although the satellite images question this. The results provide important data for restoration initiatives and fire-fighting measures in the PEC, highlighting the relevance of remote sensing for analyzing fire-related events.