2019 Sees Fewer Wildfires, But They're Hitting Populated Areas

The video discusses the threat of wildfires to homes in Los Angeles and Sonoma counties, highlighting the rapid spread of fires and ongoing evacuations. It examines the growth of housing in wildland areas, increasing the risk of fire. The Firetrap investigation found over 43 million homes in fire-prone areas, raising concerns about community development near high-risk zones. The video notes that more fire ignitions occur with increased housing development, putting more families in harm's way, despite a decrease in acres burned this year. One-third of US homes are now in high-risk wildfire areas.

What immediate action is being taken in response to the wildfires in Los Angeles and Sonoma counties?

• Increasing water supply

• Building new fire stations

• Evacuating residents

• Planting fire-resistant trees

What has been a significant finding of the Newsies investigation regarding homes in wildland areas?

• Firefighting resources are increasing.

• Wildland areas are decreasing in size.

• Wildland areas are becoming less risky.

• There are over 43 million homes in wildland areas.

Why are researchers concerned about the development of communities near wildland areas?

• It improves air quality.

• It reduces the number of available homes.

• It increases the risk of fire ignitions.

• It leads to more wildlife conservation.

What trend is observed despite a decrease in the number of acres burned this year?

• Fewer families are moving to wooded areas.

• Firefighting techniques are improving.

• More families are moving into wooded areas.

• Wildfire seasons are becoming shorter.

What proportion of homes in the US are now considered at higher risk of wildfire?

• Two-thirds

• One-fourth

• One-half

• One-third