Fire Neural Network (FNN): Harnessing AI to Stop Wildfires Before They Spread

Wildfires are among the most destructive natural disasters, consuming millions of acres of land each year, devastating communities, and costing billions in damages. FNN, co-founded by Tamas Kereszy, is tackling this crisis with cutting-edge AI-driven wildfire detection technology that identifies HighRisk-Lightning® strikes in real time.

“Our original slogan was ‘Finding fires lightning fast,’” says Kereszy. “The sooner you detect a wildfire, the better your chances of containing it, evacuating people safely, and preventing it from turning into a disaster.”

FNN’s system monitors lightning strikes, identifies the ones most likely to start wildfires, and alerts firefighting agencies within seconds—allowing them to act before a fire spreads out of control.

From a Personal Tragedy to a Game-Changing Idea

FNN’s story began with a personal experience. One of the company’s co-founders, Dr. Imre Bartos, was deeply affected when his mother-in-law had to evacuate her home due to a California wildfire. While discussing the disaster, FNN’s other co-founder, Dr. Istvan Kereszy, a lightning researcher, pointed out something shocking: the fire had been caused by a lightning strike.

That realization sparked the idea for FNN. If they could detect dangerous lightning strikes in real time, they could predict where wildfires would ignite—allowing authorities to act before they spiraled out of control.

Today, FNN has developed the world’s most accurate wildfire detection system for lightning-caused fires, combining advanced sensor networks, machine learning, and environmental data to revolutionize fire prevention.

The Technology: Predicting Wildfires with AI

While many wildfire detection systems rely on smoke, heat, or satellite imagery, FNN operates before flames even appear.

“Our sensors detect High-Risk-Lightning® strikes—the ones with enough heat and energy to ignite dry vegetation,” explains Kereszy. “Then, we use AI to analyze environmental conditions like humidity, wind, and vegetation type to determine the exact risk level of each strike.”

The system begins by detecting lightning strikes with sensors that have an accuracy range of 30 to 40 meters, compared to traditional systems that have a margin of error over a kilometer. Once a strike is recorded, AI-powered algorithms analyze weather conditions, vegetation dryness, and other environmental factors to assess the likelihood of ignition. If the system determines a high risk, it sends real-time alerts to fire command centers within 40 seconds, allowing firefighters to pinpoint and respond to potential fires before they spread.

This early-warning capability gives emergency responders a crucial head start, allowing them to respond faster and more efficiently—saving time, resources, and lives.

Real-World Impact: Stopping Wildfires in Their Tracks

FNN’s technology has already proven its value in the field. In San Bernardino County, California, authorities have been able to pinpoint and contain wildfires faster than ever before by integrating FNN’s data into a digital Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Fire departments can now track wildfire threats in real time.

In Montana, where vast forests make early detection crucial, FNN deployed ten detectors in 2024. The system has helped local firefighters identify high-risk strikes, allowing them to deploy aerial scouting teams before fires escalate.

Florida has also been leveraging FNN’s system since 2022. The Florida Forest Service has integrated it into their wildfire prevention strategy, enabling pilots to verify and respond to 165 lightning-caused wildfires more effectively. Kereszy emphasizes the impact of this technology by stating, “Instead of searching thousands of acres, we can tell fire crews exactly where to look. It’s a game-changer.”

Expanding the Reach: A Statewide Wildfire Protection Network

FNN’s vision extends beyond individual deployments. The company is working toward a statewide detection network, beginning with Florida.

“The goal is to create a unified High-Risk-Lightning® detection system,” Kereszy explains. “By placing detectors across the entire state, we can give every agency real-time access to the data they need to protect their communities.”

FNN is collaborating with power companies like Florida Power & Light to expand its impact. Utilities face major risks from lightning strikes, which can damage power lines and spark wildfires. By partnering with FNN, they can detect and mitigate these threats faster than ever before.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Like any pioneering technology, scaling up comes with challenges. Convincing municipalities and agencies to invest in prevention rather than just response remains an ongoing effort. Kereszy compares wildfire detection to insurance, explaining that while people hope they never need it, they are grateful to have it when disaster strikes.

Expanding coverage is another key challenge. While FNN has deployed sensors across multiple states, its goal is to create national and global networks.Atmospheric Catastrophic Events, such as wildfires, don’t respect borders, and according to Kereszy, their technology needs to be present wherever High-Risk-Lightning strikes are present.

As part of the XPrize Wildfire challenge, FNN is also working on integrating its system with other technologies. The company is partnering with drone and satellite companies to enhance detection capabilities. Kereszy envisions a future where a lightning strike is detected and within minutes, an autonomous drone is dispatched to verify the fire. This type of real-time verification could dramatically improve wildfire response times.

Recognition as a GrowFL Flhorida Companies to Watch Honoree

Being named a GrowFL 2024 Florida Companies to Watch honoree is a major milestone for Fire Neural Network.

“We’re honored to be recognized alongside so many amazing Florida businesses,” says Kereszy. “This award validates our mission and motivates us to keep pushing forward.”

For Kereszy, this recognition isn’t just about his company—it’s about advancing Atmospheric Catastrophic Events technology as a whole. The more awareness they bring to this issue, the more lives and communities they can protect.

Advice For Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Kereszy believes that building game-changing technology requires a mix of imagination, belief, and execution. He emphasizes the importance of imagining the solution, believing in the vision, and then creating something real. Getting out of the lab and talking to real customers is another essential step, as early feedback can make a product better.

According to Kereszy, surrounding yourself with the right team is also critical. A great idea alone is not enough; success depends on having experts who share the same passion and vision. With the right people in place, a company can go further than imagined.

The Future of FNN

With a growing footprint, new partnerships, and a relentless focus on innovation, FNN is on track to become the global leader in Atmospheric Catastrophic Events technology.

“This isn’t just about fighting fires—it’s about preventing disasters before they start,” Kereszy says.