UC Irvine researchers release high‑resolution California wildfire damage risk map

UC Irvine engineers analyzed 100,000 building inspection records from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection covering 2013‑2024. The study identified key environmental and structural factors—such as low dew‑point temperatures, high wind speeds, wooden fences, flammable siding and open eaves—that make homes vulnerable to wildfire damage. Nearly 55,000 buildings were destroyed or partially damaged in that period, with 86% located in wildland‑urban interface zones.

Using these findings, the team produced a 100‑meter‑resolution, actionable fire‑risk map for the entire state. Lead author Somnath Bar said the map provides a “physically interpretable framework” for predicting which structures are most likely to burn. The map is intended to support land‑use planning, targeted fuel‑reduction, fire‑proofing measures and data‑driven community defense. Funding came from the National Science Foundation, the University of California Office of the President and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.