Wildfire evacuation risk high in Alhambra Valley, study finds

A new study from UC Santa Barbara reveals that communities with limited road access, such as Alhambra Valley in Contra Costa County, face significantly higher wildfire death risks. - The study analyzed U.S.

wildfire deaths from 2008-2024 and found most fatalities occurred in areas with one to six exit routes. - Alhambra Valley, with only one road out, exemplifies the danger; residents like Kevin Lewis have planned staged vehicles for evacuation.

- Experts recommend early evacuation warnings and local parking restrictions to improve safety in egress-limited communities. The findings underscore the need for proactive planning in fire-prone areas with constrained road networks.