Wildfires, once thought to be primarily a Western U.S. issue, are increasingly becoming a nationwide concern. While the country watched in alarm as thousands of acres burned around Los Angeles this month, experts warn that wildfire risks are on the rise in unexpected regions, from the Great Plains to the East Coast.
Wildfires: A Growing Threat Beyond California
Although California frequently headlines wildfire disasters, other states like Idaho, Utah, Texas, and even New Jersey face growing risks. Urbanization, climate change, and invasive plant species are creating environments that ignite and spread fires faster than ever before.
A USA TODAY analysis found that 3.3 million Americans live in areas deemed “very high” risk for wildfires, while 14.8 million live in regions classified as “relatively high” risk. Surprisingly, a significant portion of these high-risk zones are located in metropolitan areas.
Hot Spots of Concern
Several metropolitan areas stand out for their wildfire vulnerability. The top three cities with the highest percentage of residents living in very high-risk wildfire zones are:
- St. George, Utah
- Rapid City, South Dakota
- Wenatchee-East Wenatchee, Washington
Additionally, suburban sprawl into wildlands is increasing risks in regions like Boise, Reno, and Oklahoma City. These areas, known for their natural beauty and affordability, are attracting new residents unaware of the wildfire hazards.
Why the Risk is Spreading
Two primary factors are driving the increasing threat of wildfires:
1. Hotter, Drier Climates
Changing climate patterns have made many areas hotter and more prone to “flash droughts,” where vegetation dries out rapidly. This creates the perfect conditions for wildfires to start and spread.
2. Urban Expansion Into Wildlands
As more people move into previously undeveloped areas, homes are often built near vegetation that can act as fuel for fires. These homes are at high risk, and once a fire spreads into urban areas, it can quickly leap from house to house.
Grass Fires: The Overlooked Threat
Grassland fires often receive less attention than forest fires but are equally destructive. For example, the 2021 Marshall Fire in Boulder County, Colorado, began as a grassfire but quickly escalated, destroying over 1,000 structures.
Grass fires spread rapidly, fueled by dry grass and high winds. They may not burn as intensely as forest fires but can still cause devastating damage to homes and infrastructure.
Unexpected Regions Facing Wildfire Risk
1. The Southeast: Florida and the Carolinas
- Florida, known for its humid climate, still faces significant wildfire risk due to its flammable ecosystems, particularly in areas like Polk County.
- The 1998 Florida Firestorm burned over 500,000 acres and forced the closure of a 140-mile stretch of Interstate 95.
2. The Northeast: New Jersey Pine Barrens
- This unique ecosystem in southern New Jersey is highly flammable and surrounded by increasing development. Ocean County, NJ, ranks seventh on the list of most at-risk counties for wildfires.
3. Appalachian Region: Tennessee and West Virginia
- The Great Smoky Mountains wildfires in 2016 killed 14 people and destroyed over 2,500 structures, highlighting the potential for devastating fires in this region.
How to Protect Homes and Communities
1. Understand Risk Before Moving
Websites like Zillow and Realtor.com now include wildfire risk ratings for properties. Prospective homeowners can use this information to make informed decisions.
2. Invest in Retrofitting Homes
Research by Headwaters Economics shows that retrofitting homes to be wildfire-resistant can be affordable. Homeowners can make changes like:
- Installing fire-resistant roofing and siding.
- Clearing vegetation around the house.
- Adding fine mesh screens to vents to prevent ember infiltration.
3. Create Defensible Space
Maintaining a buffer zone between homes and surrounding vegetation can slow the spread of fire and protect structures.
The wildfire risk in the U.S. is no longer confined to traditional hotspots like California. Cities across the nation, from Florida to New Jersey and Utah, are grappling with increasing threats. As climate change accelerates and urban expansion continues, understanding and mitigating these risks is crucial. With proactive measures, homeowners and communities can reduce the potential for devastating losses and adapt to this growing challenge.
