Tarapada Mandal

Wildfires are occurring worldwide. The frequency of wildfires is high, as more wildfires are reported around the world in recent times. During dry seasons, wildfires are reported in different parts of India. Understanding the evacuation decisions in a wildfire is paramount. Understanding factors that affect evacuation choices is also important. In this study, data (demographic, socioeconomic, safety perception, and safety knowledge) were collected from Uttarakhand, India. First, a binomial logistic regression model is calibrated with the data. Confirmatory factor analysis results in two latent factors. The latent factors (from factor loadings) are incorporated in the integrated choice and latent variable model, which is calibrated with the collected data. The results indicate factors that influence evacuation decisions. The model results are consistent with the wildfire evacuation literature. Recommendations about future work are made.