Wildfires primarily involve natural vegetation and fuels in more undeveloped or forested areas. Urban fires involve structures, infrastructure, and often flammable materials within urbanized cities. Urban conflagration refers to large, uncontrollable fires that rapidly spread through densely populated areas, causing widespread destruction. Unlike wildfires, which typically occur in rural or forested regions, urban conflagrations thrive in tightly packed buildings and infrastructure, often fueled by high winds, flammable materials, and inadequate fire control measures.

Building density and construction were more influential than vegetation
Dense developments with multiple nearby structures were far more vulnerable. The structure-to-structure fire spread—not nearby plants—was the dominant risk in many urban fires.

Overstory tree cover was not a significant predictor of loss
Contrary to widespread belief, canopy trees did not substantially influence fire outcomes in zone 0.  Some may even act as ember shields protecting homes. We’ve heard about this antidotally but I think the post fire analysis for Palisades and Eaton will support these stories of trees protecting homes.