Special Report

These Are the Places Most Likely to Have Wildfires

15. McPherson County, Nebraska
> Pct. of properties at risk: 96.9%
> Total properties at risk: 1,600
> Largest city in the county: N/A

In July 2012, firefighters fought a 1,000-acre blaze at the Nebraska National Forest, a 141,864-acre park established in 1907. A lightning storm ignited the fire, which forced evacuation of two nearby campsites. Thick smoke made driving in the area difficult, but no injuries were reported.

14. Winkler County, Texas
> Pct. of properties at risk: 96.9%
> Total properties at risk: 6,100
> Largest city in the county: Kermit

Located 14 miles south of Kermit, Texa, the Sands wildfire in Winkler County began Aug. 27, 2020. More recently, Gov. Greg Abbott renewed a Disaster Declaration in May in response to wildfires spreading in a number of Texas counties, including Winkler. In May, a red flag warning for heightened fire conditions was issued for Winkler County.

Source: DenisTangneyJr / iStock via Getty Images

13. Carson City, Nevada
> Pct. of properties at risk: 96.9%
> Total properties at risk: 19,600

On June 17, a wildfire ignited a building at the Genoa Cemetery in Carson City. Nearby roads were closed to motorists due to the smoke, and evacuations were ordered for several neighborhoods. The fire was soon contained.

12. Kimble County, Texas
> Pct. of properties at risk: 97.1%
> Total properties at risk: 8,600
> Largest city in the county: Junction

The Whitworth Fire in Kimble County blazed across 15 acres in early June. As smoke rose, planes doused the flames with fire retardant, containing 30% of the blaze. Earlier in May, a 55-acre wildfire in Kimble County was brought under 90% control.

Source: raksyBH / iStock Editorial via Getty Images

11. Custer County, South Dakota
> Pct. of properties at risk: 97.3%
> Total properties at risk: 12,500
> Largest city in the county: Custer

Strong winds accelerated a wildfire burning between 40 to 100 acres in Custer in early April. Soon after it began, 30% of the fire was contained. Residents ordered to evacuate were told to find shelter at the Custer Armory.

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