The risk of wildfires is increasing across the country, not just in California, with many cities facing high wildfire risks. Population growth in these high-risk areas is also increasing. The changing climate, dry conditions, and movement of people into wildlands are contributing to the threat. Wildfires are no longer confined to forest areas, with 74% of high-risk areas located in metropolitan areas.
Areas like the Southwest, Idaho, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Appalachia, and Florida are facing significant wildfire risks due to factors like rapid growth, grassland fires, and historical fire events. Even places like the New Jersey Pine Barrens are at high risk due to development surrounding flammable ecosystems.
Tools are available to help protect homes from wildfires, such as avoiding high-risk areas when possible and retrofitting homes to be more wildfire resilient. While the dangers are real, becoming wildfire resilient doesn’t have to be expensive, with some effective measures costing as little as $2,000. By using available data and taking proactive steps, individuals can better protect themselves and their homes from the increasing threat of wildfires.
