Investigating Remotely Sensed Evapotranspiration in the Las Conchas and Old Fires

Abstract:

Wildfires significantly alter landscapes and can contribute to observed changes in hydrology. Evapotranspiration (ET) contributes significantly to the hydrologic cycle, however, there are limited studies on the impacts of fire on this variable. Using remote sensing derived products, this study explores the spatial variability of ET (specifically, the operational Simplified Surface Energy Balance (SSEBop)) within the 2011 Las Conchas Fire, New Mexico and the 2003 Old Fire, California. Following the Las Conchas Fire, spatial ET is compared with two ground-based meteorological stations and two nearby unburned stations. In the Old Fire, a simple water balance approach is used to approximate and compare watershed-scale ET pre- and post-fire. Preliminary analysis with SSEBop in Las Conchas shows relatively similar precipitation patterns while post-fire ET appears altered within high, moderate, and low burn severity areas. We will continue to evaluate the relation between post-fire ET and characteristics such as land cover, land surface temperature, and precipitation. This analysis will provide information on the application of spatial ET products to improve post-fire hydrologic estimates.