Image credit: CFJC Today / File Photo

By Adam Campbell

Western Interconnected Grid

Thompson Rivers University joins U.S.-Canada wildfire prediction network

Nov 7, 2023 | 11:48 AM

KAMLOOPS — Thompson Rivers University (TRU) has joined the U.S.-Canada Centre on Climate-Resilient Western Interconnected Grid, a coalition made up of 10 other universities in western Canada and the U.S.

In a news release issued Tuesday (Nov. 7), TRU announced it would work closely with these institutions to enhance wildfire prediction models and protect the Western Interconnected Grid, a major power grid serving approximately 80 million people and over 4.6 million square kilometres.

Image credit: TRU/Contributed

Leading experts in the grid are also attempting to fortify the region’s adaptability to increased frequency and duration of wildfires and heatwaves.

In light of TRU’s senate endorsing a potential Institute for Wildfire Science, Adaptation and Resiliency at TRU on Oct. 23, the centre would further aid in accelerating innovations at wildfire prevention, response and recovery.

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BC Innovation Research Chair in Predictive Services, Emergency Management and Fire Science at TRU, Dr. Mike Flannigan, has highlighted the need for more accurate prediction systems, by modelling the historical probability of powerline-caused wildfires in Western Canada.

“Our research team at TRU strongly supports this effort to better protect our communities and our electrical power supply during this period of increasing challenges from climate change,” said Flannigan.

More information on the U.S.-Canada Centre on Climate-Resilient Western Interconnected Grid can be found here.