#Ashfall citizen science initiative

The Desert Research Institute and University of Nevada, Reno are encouraging community members to photograph wildfire ash as part of the citizen science initiative #Ashfall.

#Ashfall uses photographs of wildfire ash to learn about severe weather generated by wildfires. Photos of ash from the public allow researchers to match ash shape and size with radar measurements of wildfire smoke plumes, which gives crucial insight for developing models of the way that fire-generated

tornadic vortices (“fire tornadoes”) form.

Community members are encouraged to photograph wildfire ash when it falls in their area. Include a reference object for size (like a coin or ruler) in the photo and then submit it to the Citizen Science Tahoe app (citizensciencetahoe.app) or post the photo on Twitter using the tag #Ashfall.

Remember, safety is the priority. #Ashfall is a way for those who are not at risk from current fires to contribute to scientific knowledge that aims to strengthen our communities’ defenses and protect our natural spaces against severe weather generated by wildfires. To join the #Ashfall email list, visit:

https://bit.ly/ashfall-signup

Please feel free to reach out with any questions or comments about participating in #Ashfall by emailing

sonia.nieminen@dri.edu.

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