Mapping tool for assessing wildfire ignition potential from overhead distribution lines

Wildfires are becoming increasingly frequent and severe, due to the deteriorating climate crisis, particularly in regions characterized by prolonged dry seasons and elevated temperatures. Electrical distribution infrastructure has been identified in the past as a potential ignition source, especially through the overheating of exposed equipment. This study introduces a wildfire risk mapping tool that assesses ignition risk by integrating electrical grid operation, environmental conditions, and geospatial vegetation data. The tool estimates conductor temperatures by combining electrical loading, weather data, and conductor characteristics, based on a generally accepted calculation standard (IEEE 738). Each grid segment is then classified into one of four risk levels based on calculated thermal thresholds. These results are geospatially projected and correlated with the surrounding biomass, enabling precise identification of areas prone to wildfire. The modular architecture of the tool supports scalability and customization, providing actionable insights for both power grid operators and civil protection authorities. This tool addresses the limitations of conventional wildfire hazard maps, which often lack operational data and local granularity. The tool has been tested with real-world data from Xanthi, Greece, and demonstrated that wildfires may start from overheated distribution lines nearby prone-to-ignition biomass present in the Mediterranean during extreme weather conditions.