Wildfire Hazard and Risk Mapping
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is leading the development of a Wildfire Hazard and Risk Mapping initiative, as directed by Senate Bill 6120. This effort aims to enhance wildfire preparedness by identifying areas at risk and providing general hazard assessments.
Project Overview
This project will support communities, emergency responders, and policymakers in reducing wildfire impacts across Washington by creating accessible and standardized wildfire hazard and risk information.
A Steering Committee consisting of county fire marshals, insurance commissioners, and representatives of counties and cities across Washington will provide guidance to DNR to best meet the needs of stakeholders across the state.
Meetings
Steering Committee meetings are open to the public to listen to discussions. There will also be opportunities to provide input on the mapping tool via surveys and an in-person community meeting in the coming months.
May 5, 2025
April 14, 2025
March 27, 2025
February 18, 2025
Key Outcomes
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Statewide Wildfire Hazard Map – DNR will develop and maintain a map that categorizes wildfire hazard levels (low, moderate, high, very high) across Washington.
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County-Level Wildfire Risk Maps – Each county will have a base-level risk assessment to aid local planning and response efforts.
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Standardized Risk Mapping Criteria – In collaboration with the State Fire Marshal’s Office, DNR will establish clear criteria to assess and map wildfire risk at a county level.
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Public Access to Data – The finalized hazard and risk maps will be available on DNR’s website, providing transparency and supporting mitigation planning.
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Ongoing Updates – A structured methodology will be established for updating the maps to reflect changing conditions and new data.
