What fire behavior is characterized by the potential for a sudden and intense increase in fire activity?

The term that describes a fire behavior characterized by a sudden and intense increase in activity is known as a blowup. A blowup can occur due to various factors such as changes in wind speed, a rise in temperature, or an increase in available fuel, leading to a rapid escalation in fire intensity. This phenomenon poses significant risks to firefighters and can complicate suppression efforts, as the fire can quickly spread and become uncontrollable.

Understanding the nature of a blowup is critical for wildland firefighters, as recognizing the signs of potential blowup scenarios can enhance safety and inform tactical decisions during an incident. In contrast, backing refers to fire spreading against the wind, creeping describes a slow and steady fire spread, and smoldering indicates a low-intensity fire behavior with little flame, all of which do not exhibit the sudden and intense characteristics associated with a blowup.