Sub-seasonal weather forecast plays a major part in SAFERS platform as it supports the identification of potential wildfire risks and thus allows for early warnings. The data forecast of relevant variables for forest fire risk prediction is provided by the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI). The FMI is a research and service agency which performs advanced scientific research and provides a wide variety of information service relating to weather, climate, marine and air quality.

Around the world, forests are facing unprecedented ferocity of fire seasons which are exacerbated due to climate change. In the latest IPCC report “Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability”, released yesterday, it is stated that wildfires are blazing larger areas than ever before in many regions, leading to irreversible alteration to the landscape.

The International Day of Forests is a global celebration which is held annually on 21^st March to raise awareness on the importance of all types of forests for current and future generations. The theme for the International Day of Forests 2021 is “Forest Restoration: a path to recovery and well-being.”