S-290 Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior Practice Test

A surface fire with torching and spotting is best described as one that burns primarily on the ground but occasionally extends into the tree crowns. In this context, "surfacing fire" indicates that the primary combustion occurs on the forest floor among the underbrush, grasses, and small shrubs. However, "torching" refers to the fire behavior where flames reach up into the tree crowns, igniting individual trees or clusters of trees, which can lead to "spotting." Spotting is when embers are carried by the wind away from the main fire, potentially igniting new fires in more distant locations.

The characteristics of a surface fire with torching and spotting highlight the dynamics of fire behavior in forested environments, showing that while the main fire may be on the surface, the effectiveness of the fire can rapidly escalate when it transitions into the canopy. This process demonstrates how surface fires can grow in intensity and spread when conditions are favorable, such as when there is sufficient fuel and wind. Understanding this behavior is critical for fire management and response strategies.