BEIRUT (Enmaeya News) - October 13, 2025

A team of engineering students at the Lebanese American University (LAU) has developed a new satellite-powered system to detect wildfires in real time across Lebanon, according to This is Beirut.

The project was created by students Joya Maria Saade, Christopher Zein, Georges Barhouche, and Joey Angeli, under the guidance of professors Zahi Nakad and Gilbert Accary.

It uses data from NASA’s FIRMS and EUMETSAT satellites to identify fires and update the dashboard every few minutes.

The system sends instant alerts to municipalities and first responders, providing precise fire locations, intensity levels, and a live view of the affected area.

This enables authorities to respond more quickly and tackle fires in their early stages.

According to the LAU team, the dashboard is designed to improve wildfire prevention and response in Lebanon, a country that has experienced increasingly frequent and severe wildfires in recent years.

The beta version has already been tested and is now officially in use by the Civil Defense.

“This system allows us to detect fires as soon as they start,” said one of the developers. “Early detection is critical for minimizing damage and protecting communities and natural areas.”

Experts say that tools like this could transform wildfire management in Lebanon, where rapid urban expansion and climate change have increased fire risks.

By combining satellite data with real-time alerts, authorities can act faster and allocate resources more efficiently.

The LAU dashboard represents a significant step forward for disaster preparedness in Lebanon, showcasing how local innovation and technology can support public safety.