As of 2022, California was the US state with the most wildland fires at a staggering 12,518 incidents reported. The Golden State's diverse landscape, coupled with its ever-evolving climate conditions, makes it a hotbed for wildfires year-round. From the dense forests of the north to the arid regions in the south, firefighters in California are constantly navigating the complexities of wildland firefighting.

Following closely behind is Texas, with 11,264 reported incidents. The Lone Star State's vast expanses of grasslands and forests provide ample fuel for wildfires, particularly during the scorching summer months. Firefighters here work tirelessly, often facing daunting odds as they battle to contain blazes that threaten homes and livelihoods.

Georgia ranks third on the list, with 8,921 reported incidents. Despite its reputation for lush landscapes and humid climates, Georgia experiences its fair share of wildfires, especially in rural areas where dry conditions can fuel fast-spreading flames. Emergency responders in Georgia are well-versed in the art of wildfire management, employing tailored strategies to mitigate the impact of these natural disasters.

Florida, known for its tropical beaches and swaying palm trees, comes in fourth with 3,408 reported incidents. While the state may be more commonly associated with hurricanes, its extensive marshlands and forests are also susceptible to wildfires, particularly during periods of drought. Firefighters in Florida must be prepared to tackle blazes in a variety of environments, from dense swamps to urban neighborhoods.

Rounding out the top five is Washington, with 3,169 reported incidents. The Evergreen State's temperate rainforests and rugged mountains provide ample fuel for wildfires, especially during dry summers. Despite its reputation for wet weather, Washington has experienced an increase in wildfire activity in recent years, prompting emergency responders to adopt robust strategies for prevention and containment.

Trend of Wildfires in California

The data reveals a notable trend of wildfire incidents in California over the past decade, showcasing a fluctuating pattern with some years witnessing significant increases in incidents compared to others. Starting at 6,201 incidents in 2012, the number steadily rose over the years, reaching a peak of 15,313 incidents in 2020. Although there were slight fluctuations in some years, such as the decrease to 10,735 incidents in 2018, the overall trajectory demonstrates a concerning rise in wildfire occurrences throughout the state.

Data Source and Methodology

The first set of data above count NFIRS basic incident/wildland fire incidents, year 2022, for all states, where mutual aid is not given (codes 3 and 4).

The second set of data above count NFIRS basic incident/wildland fire incidents, years 2012-2022, for California, where mutual aid is not given.

Mutual aid given incident reports are not counted in order to avoid duplicates.