What is one of the factors to be assessed for hazard assessment?

The weather forecast is a crucial factor to assess during a hazard evaluation. Weather conditions can significantly impact the behavior of fire, influencing factors such as wind speed and direction, humidity levels, and temperature. For instance, high winds can carry embers to new locations, potentially spreading a fire, while dry conditions can lead to increased flammability. Understanding the forecast allows firefighters to anticipate changes in fire behavior and strategize their response effectively.

While aspects such as crew experience and previous incidents provide valuable context, it is the immediate environmental conditions forecasted that can have the most direct influence on safety and operational tactics at the scene. The threat level of the fire is also essential, but it frequently derives insight from surrounding conditions, which makes the weather forecast particularly pivotal in hazard assessment.