As California’s Madre fire continues to grow, becoming the largest in that state in a year already synonymous with wildfire, Wildfire Today guest writer Jackson Ruby looks at Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) data on wildfire risk in California.
From sandy beaches to snow-capped mountains to deserts, California has it all. With its natural beauty and fourth-largest economy in the world, it isn’t surprising that the Golden State has some of the most sought-after and most expensive real estate in the United States.
Despite all that makes California a desirable place to live, an underlying threat makes its presence known every year in the form of wildfire. In 2025 alone, there have been more than 3,200 wildfires, over 96,000 acres burned, and 16,000 structures destroyed. Here, we investigate which California counties are the most susceptible to fires and provide important information to keep your family and home safe.
As thoroughly explained in an online guide from the Western Fire Chiefs Association, California fires can technically happen year-round, but peak fire season varies by region. In Northern California, it typically starts in June or July and lasts through late October or November. Whereas in Southern California, the peak season begins earlier, in late spring, and can continue through October…