California updates wildfire maps showing increased risk zones for over 1 million acres

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed an executive order to enhance fire safety in urban areas. New maps reveal over 1 million acres are now classified at higher wildfire risk, with 1.4 million acres in the "High" and "Very High" categories. The updated maps include "Moderate" and "High" risk levels, expanding the areas previously labeled as "Very High" only. For instance, Butte County's risk area has increased significantly since 2011, now including more than 55,000 additional acres. Local governments have 120 days to adopt new regulations based on these maps. The order also mandates collaboration among state and federal agencies to improve wildfire response systems.