A root fire is a rare and fascinating natural phenomenon that occurs after a wildfire. When intense surface flames die down, the heat can penetrate deep into the soil, igniting the underground root systems of trees and plants. These fires burn slowly beneath the surface, hidden from sight, fueled by oxygen pockets and decaying organic matter within the soil. Because they are buried beneath layers of dirt and ash, root fires can persist long after the main wildfire has been extinguished. They can