Understanding Fire Risk in Coastal California
In this series, we will discuss how we can move forward by building smarter in the face of growing wildfire threats.
As a licensed architect in California, I am grateful that the state licensing exams included an emphasis on fire risk and mitigation techniques. With the level of devastation in California in front of our eyes daily, the responsibility to design and build fire-resistant homes is more evident now than ever before.
effects of Climate Change
The California fires, including those ongoing in areas such as the Pacific Palisades and Eaton Canyon (as of early 2025), demonstrate the evolving nature of our fire risk. These fires, occurring outside traditional fire seasons, highlight that climate change has extended the threat period to nearly year-round. But, how has climate change increased the risk of fire in Coastal California?
Extended fire seasons now spanning 9-10 months
More frequent extreme weather events
Longer drought periods between rainfall
Increased vegetation stress and die-off
Higher average temperatures leading to drier conditions
Extended Santa Ana wind seasons
Water Availability challenges
In Pacific Palisades, firefighters faced particular challenges with limited road access and steep terrain, while simultaneously dealing with water pressure issues in some areas. Water availability is a a growing concern as our infrastructure faces increased demands. Current challenges include:
Reduced reservoir levels affecting firefighting capacity
Infrastructure strain during multiple simultaneous fires
Need for independent water storage systems in new construction
Aging infrastructure in high-risk areas
Competition between residential and firefighting needs
Firefighting Resource Considerations
Even with “all hands on deck,” the firefighters of Los Angeles were overwhelmed by the size and strength of the fires. Aside from expanding the number of emergency responders and aerial firefighting resources, there are other resources that need consideration to support their effectiveness, including:
Need for improved access roads in hillside developments
Growing importance of automated fire detection and response systems
Efficient coordination with other jurisdictions, especially with multi-jurisdictional emergencies
Contingency plan to mitigate the impact of power shutoffs on firefighting capabilities
In Part 2, we will explore the anticipated relative costs of fire-resistant home construction in coastal California.
