Who Is At Risk?
Although Americans living in or on the edges of undeveloped land face the highest risk, hotter and drier conditions are putting more U.S. counties in harm’s way than ever before. In fact, every state experienced wildfires in 2024, underscoring that wildfires have become a national risk.
HEALTH
Wildfires can impact the health of Americans in various ways, including:
• Smoke and fire particles that travel hundreds of miles, and which caused ~16,000 deaths a year and other respiratory ailments
• Direct fatalities, climbing as high as 130 in 2023
ENVIRONMENT
Wildfires burned 8.8 million acres of U. S. land in 2024, causing:
• Increased air and carbon pollution
• Loss of wildlife, ecosystems, and agricultural productivity
COMMUNITY
Wildfires destroy about 3,500 structures per year, mostly homes, causing:
• Widespread displacement
• Loss of energy and other critical infrastructure
ECONOMY
Wildfires cost the U. S. economy up to $893 billion annually, caused by :
• Property and capital loss
• Insurance and liability costs and increases
How Do Wildfires Affect the U.S.?
What Can We Do?
Prevention and preparedness are key to reducing the risk of wildfires. Our coalition is committed to implementing an effective national strategy founded on prevention, community protection, investment, and rapid recovery.