Wildfire and smoke effects on power transmission and distribution systems safety: an analytical review

This paper examines the effects of wildfires and smoke on power transmission and distribution networks through theoretical, modeling, and research evaluations from 1999 to 2025. A total of 102 relevant works are organized chronologically to demonstrate the evolution of research objectives over 27 years, highlighting an increased scientific interest in recent years due to the exacerbation of wildfires linked to climate change. The study categorizes works into six subject groups, emphasizing the need for advanced monitoring, modeling, and mitigation strategies. Essential factors, such as thermal stress due to climatic conditions, the impact of pollutants, and the utilization of unmanned aerial vehicles and sensor technologies, are analyzed to improve conductor performance assessment and the fire hardening of substations and emerging assets such as battery energy storage systems. The need of integrating wildfire risk management into power system resilience is highlighted, with frameworks guiding comprehensive evaluations. Wildfire mitigation strategies, including insulated conductors, fire-resistant equipment, and real-time monitoring systems, are crucial measures to minimize damage and ensure reliable power transmission. The findings endorse continued research to enhance preparedness and resilience against wildfire-related threats to power infrastructure.