In the urban-wildland interface, why is there a high potential for wildfires?

In the urban-wildland interface, the high potential for wildfires primarily arises from the proximity of human development to undeveloped, natural land. When urban areas expand into or near wildland areas, the combination of residential structures, flammable landscaping materials, and other human activities can create ideal conditions for fires to ignite and spread. This interface is characterized by a blend of combustible vegetation and human-made materials, which can exacerbate fire risks, especially during dry conditions or periods of high winds.

Additionally, as human development encroaches on natural areas, it can lead to increased human activity, such as campfires, discarded cigarettes, or equipment use, which further elevates the potential for fire ignition. The infrastructure and resources in urban areas may not be sufficient to quickly contain or respond to wildfires that start in adjacent wildlands, making this interface particularly vulnerable to large-scale fire events.