Wildfire detection system uses AI to help Central Texans [Video]

AUSTIN, Texas — As Texas temperatures continue to soar, so does the risk of wildfires.

The system, called Pano AI, will monitor 437 square miles of Austin, the majority of Travis County and some of Hays, Williamson, Bastrop and Burnet counties.

Twenty-six cameras will use a combination of 360-degree technology and AI to detect smoke and determine where a fire is happening. The system will then send that information to first responders in real-time.

“This is an important step for the safety of our community and the reliability of our electric system,” said Chris Vetromile, Austin Energy’s wildfire program manager. “With climate change driving hotter, drier summers, this AI-powered detection system allows us to respond faster and more effectively to wildfires, safeguarding our community and supporting more reliable service.”

Justice Jones is the Wildfire Mitigation Officer with …