Is my California home at risk for wildfires? New tool lets you check your ZIP code

More than 71 million U.S. homes have some level of risk for wildfire, a study found, as hot temperatures begin to feed fires in California.

Just last week, the Coastal Fire burned about 200 acres in Orange County, resulting in evacuations and more than 30 homes damaged or destroyed, according to the city of Laguna Niguel. The fire is 90% contained, as reported by Cal Fire, but fire season is barely starting.

First Street Foundation, a non-profit research group, found that about 71.8 million homes in the country have minor to extreme risk for wildfires in 2022 and the number is anticipated to grow by 11.1% — to 79.8 million — by 2050 due to climate change.

More than 4.6 million properties in California, or about 40% of the state, have at least “moderate” risk of burning in a wildfire some time in the next 30 years, according to First Street Foundation.

You can see where your California home stands in wildfire risk over the next 30 years, as well as flood risk, by using the online tool, Risk Factor, provided by First Street Foundation. The tool also shows how many commercial and residential properties are at risk, records of historic wildfires in your area and factors that make your area vulnerable for fires.

How to check

Go to the Risk Factor website and input your ZIP code in the search bar.

The graph below shows the 10 counties in California with the most properties at risk for wildfires.

Prepare for California wildfires

However much risk your home is for wildfires, you can start preparing now.

This includes making an emergency supply kit, installing smoke detectors and using ignition-resistant materials in your home. You can also fire-proof your house by ensuring your roof is made of composition, metal, clay or tile.

This story was originally published May 16, 2022 at 1:36 PM with the headline "Is my California home at risk for wildfires? New tool lets you check your ZIP code."