Apport des SIG et de la télédétection dans l’évaluation du risque d’incendie de forêt

Abstract

Like forests around the world, Algerian forests face numerous challenges, with fire being one of the most serious and threatening. Undoubtedly, it represents the main hazard due to its severe and destructive impacts, which are often irreversible. In this context, Algerian decision-makers have sounded the alarm in response to the urgency of the situation, mobilizing all state services directly or indirectly related to forest management. This includes security forces, political leaders, legal services, the population, as well as available financial resources and material means. Indeed, to achieve the objectives set by the state, it is essential to involve the scientific community to provide guidance and to develop appropriate techniques and strategies to address this challenge. This study aims to utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools and remote sensing data to create an interactive database that allows for multi-criteria analysis and the production of detailed thematic maps of forest fire risks. The study focuses on part of the Zouagha forests, located within the administrative boundaries of the communes of Terrai Bainen and Amira Arrès. The results show that approximately 70% of the study area is exposed to high to very high fire risk, particularly in the northern and eastern parts. These areas are characterized by unfavourable combinations of topographic, vegetative, and human factors. Areas with low or very low risk are marginal and mainly located in the south. It has become clear that the use of GIS and remote sensing data provides a valuable and effective contribution to the sustainable management of forest fire risks in particular, and environmental risks in general.