What Causes Wildfires?

Wildfires are currently a major topic of concern for many Americans. The recent devastating wildfires in southern California understandably have many residents questioning how the disasters began and if they can be prevented in the future. Many people are also concerned about their insurance coverage and whether they can expect to receive reimbursement for wildfire damage to their property.

Fortunately, a local independent insurance agent can help you get set up with all the coverage you need to protect your home against wildfire losses. They'll ensure you get matched with a policy that specifically covers wildfire damage and destruction. But first, let's take a closer look at what causes wildfires and forest fires in the U.S.

Are Forest Fires the Same As Wildfires?

When many people think of forest fires, they're actually thinking of wildfires. That's because all forest fires are technically wildfires, but not all wildfires can be categorized as forest fires. Wildfires are defined as uncontrolled fires that burn wildland vegetation and originate from unplanned ignition sources, which can include:

• Human causes
• Lightning
• Volcanoes

To be considered a wildfire, the fire must burn an area of wildland, which tends to be uninhabited or underdeveloped areas such as forests, croplands, brushlands, and grasslands. As such, many wildfires that occur could also be called forest fires. However, a small percentage of these fires are simply forest fires, which are uncontrolled fires that occur in vegetation that's more than six feet in height.

Wildfire Stats for the U.S. in 2025

This year has seen extreme destruction due to wildfires in many areas. Hundreds of wildfires ripped through southern California in January of 2025, including the Pacific Palisades fire. These fires caused an estimated $250 to $275 billion in damages. 

Here are some additional recent wildfire stats to consider:

• About 85% of wildfires are caused by humans.
• Wildfires cause an increased risk of flooding for up to two to five years afterward.
• Half of the population at risk for wildfires will live in the South by 2052.
• Wildfires increase the U.S.'s affordable housing crisis.
• There have been a total of 610 wildfires so far in California in 2025, which have led to 30 fatalities in total.
• The 2025 Southern California wildfires destroyed more than 16,250 structures. 
• The 2025 Southern California wildfires burned more than 59,175 acres.
• The 2025 California Eaton Fire, which burned 14,021 acres, is the fifth-deadliest and the second-most destructive wildfire in the state's history.

Wildfires are destructive to land, property, and human life. Knowing which areas have a greater risk of wildfires can help you plan ahead or even avoid these disasters entirely.

Which States Have the Highest Risk of Wildfires?

According to FEMA's Wildfire Risk Index, many areas that carry the highest risk of wildfires are located on the West Coast of the U.S., though this risk largely spreads outward to about the middle of the country. Still, many areas along the Gulf and South and East Coasts also have a high risk of developing wildfires. See the map below for more details.

Image source: FEMA

Along the Gulf or South Coast of the U.S., the states of Florida, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona have extreme wildfire risks. However, many states further north, including Nevada, Utah, and Colorado, also carry a high risk. Further, Hawaii, which is not part of the continental U.S., has an extreme wildfire risk, as does Alaska.

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What Are the Main Causes of Wildfires and Forest Fires?

People cause the vast majority of wildfires and forest fires, starting nearly 85% of all fires. These fires are often caused by human negligence, such as leaving campfires unattended, burning debris, carelessly discarding still-lit cigarettes, or using equipment that can ignite when it malfunctions. Some fires, still, are caused by intentional arson acts. 

A small percentage of forest fires and wildfires are started by natural causes. These typically include lightning that ignites a fire, which then spreads. However, volcanic eruptions can also result in deadly fires that spread rapidly.

Does My Insurance Cover Wildfire or Forest Fire Damage?

In many areas, standard homeowners insurance policies include protection for many types of fire damage, including that stemming from wildfires or forest fires. However, in locations that are at a high risk of wildfires, a separate policy or endorsement for these fires may be necessary. Your independent insurance agent can help you evaluate your existing coverage to find out for sure if you're protected against wildfire and forest fire damage. 

To protect your vehicle against wildfire or forest fire damage and destruction, your car insurance policy must include comprehensive coverage. Your auto policy must already have this coverage before a wildfire is in the forecast for it to be valid. If your car insurance doesn't include comprehensive coverage, an independent insurance agent can help you add it today.

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An Independent Insurance Agent Can Help You Find Wildfire Coverage

When it comes to protecting your home and other property against wildfire damage and destruction, no one's better equipped to help than a local independent insurance agent. These agents have access to multiple insurance companies, ultimately finding you the best home insurance that includes wildfire coverage. Your agent can shop and compare policies and quotes to find you the absolute best deal. And down the road, if you ever need to file a home insurance claim or update your coverage, your agent will be there to help.