Paradise Wildfire, 2018

Where is Paradise?

Foothills of Sierra Nevada, California

Thick canopy of pines & chaparral bush surrounding increased urbanisation

Cause

Century old power hook that failed and sent sparks into dry tinder brush

What boosted the fire?

70mph gusts of wind

How many died?

85

Population Impact

Decreased from 26000 to 1/3 of this

Impact on eldery/low income residents

Long term displacement

Mental Impacts

Severe PTSD and mental health

Economic Cost

$16 billion

% of town destruction

90%

Housing Costs

Increased due to stricter wildfire building costs

Environmental Impacts

1 million trees removed

How long did debris take to clear

9 months

Short term responses

Failed evacuations as warning systems failed

Housing

Temporary in RVs/extended family

What happened to power lines

Put underground

Fire resistant community

A community designed with materials and infrastructure that minimize fire risks, including non-flammable building materials, strategic landscaping, and adequate spacing between structures.

Measures taken for prevention after

Improved Evacuation routes

Vegetation Management

Prescribed/controlled burns

Community involvement

Education campaigns on fire safety and local participation in fire prevention efforts.

How many homes built anually

600