25 May 2021 With climate change forest fires are becoming more common, causing ecological and economic loss. A forest fire site was assessed using both high-resolution LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), captured from a drone, and satellite optical imagery to appraise the potential of this approach for the future. The findings showed that UAV LiDAR data provided ecologically meaningful metrics which can be used to predict fire risk, develop more precise, site-specific fire impact studies and create post-fire management plans. Establishing forest fire severity with UAV LiDAR Wildfires don’t burn evenly through forests, some areas may be barely touched, whilst in other areas, most of the trees and foliage will be severely damaged. Understanding the severity and distribution of a fire within a forest can assist with estimating and modelling future forest fires to aid both prevention and containment.