What consideration should be made regarding weather before engaging in firefighting operations?

In the context of firefighting operations, wind direction is critically important because it influences fire behavior and spreads. Understanding which way the wind is blowing helps firefighters anticipate how a fire may move and plan their attack accordingly. For example, if the wind is blowing towards a structure or a densely populated area, firefighters need to take extra precautions and potentially adjust their tactics to protect those assets. It can also affect the visibility and create hazards such as embers being carried away from the main fire, which can ignite new fires ahead of the main front.

While other weather considerations like humidity levels, daily temperature, and precipitation forecasts play roles in fire behavior and operational safety, wind direction provides immediate and actionable information that can dramatically change the strategy firefighters must employ in real time.