Affiliation:
1. Computing, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA
2. Department of Civil Engineering, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725, USA
Abstract
Research on wildfires and social vulnerability has gained significant importance due to the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires around the world. This study investigates the dynamic changes in social vulnerability to wildfires over a decade in Idaho, USA, utilizing GIS-based tools and a quasi-experimental design. We assess the evolving nature of social vulnerability at a local scale, emphasizing both spatial and temporal dynamics. Initially, we identified social vulnerability trends in relation to varying levels of wildfire risk. The research then employs propensity score matching to contrast areas affected by wildfires in 2012 with similar non-affected regions, thereby quantifying the short-term shifts in social vulnerability post-wildfires. The results indicate that regions with a high wildfire risk may display elevated vulnerability, characterized by an increase in unemployment rates and a reduction in high-income households. These findings tentatively demonstrate the compounded effect of wildfires on already vulnerable populations, highlighting the critical need for targeted interventions. Ultimately, this study underscores the importance of integrating dynamic social vulnerability assessments into wildfire management and planning, aiming to enhance community resilience and equitable resource distribution in the face of escalating wildfire threats.
Reference29 articles.
1. Towards a comprehensive look at global drivers of novel extreme wildfire events;Duane;Clim. Chang.,2021
2. Emslie, A. (KQED News, 2017). October Fires’ 44th Victim: A Creative, Globetrotting Engineer with ‘the Kindest Heart’, KQED News.
3. Xanthopoulos, G., Viegas, D.X., and Caballero, D. (2009). The fatal fire entrapment of Artemida (Greece) 2007. Recent Forest Fire Related Accidents in Europe, Office for Official Publications of the European Communities.
4. Social vulnerability to large wildfires in the western USA;Palaiologou;Landsc. Urban Plan.,2019
5. Changes in social vulnerability to flooding: A quasi-experimental analysis;Darlington;Nat. Hazards,2022