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Most wildfire detection systems rely on above-ground sensors that can fail in extreme conditions or produce false alarms. In this episode, high school researcher Rhea Rawat explores a new approach to early wildfire detection using subterranean soil sensors.

Rhea explains how low-cost, LoRaWAN-enabled underground sensors measure temperature and moisture changes to detect wildfires 10–17 minutes before flames are visible. By deploying sensors at multiple soil depths, this technology improves detection accuracy while reducing false positives.

As wildfire risk continues to increase, underground wildfire detection could become a critical tool for protecting lives, homes, and ecosystems. This episode rethinks wildfire detection by looking below the surface.

Rhea's Research: https://emerginginvestigators.org/articles/24-154
https://nealonfire.com/