How quantum computers could help fight wildfires

A firefighter battling the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles on Jan 11, 2025. Wildfires are devastating, but with the right focus and tools, we can fight back – with precision, strategy, and quantum math on our side. — AP

Fighting wildfires is a massive logistical challenge – a high-stakes puzzle where every move counts. At their core, wildfires are optimization problems: How do you allocate limited resources like water, personnel, and aircraft to have the greatest impact? Which areas must be protected first, and how do you predict and stay ahead of a fire’s unpredictable behaviour?

Add in dynamic factors like shifting weather patterns and road traffic, and the complexity becomes even more staggering.