AUSTIN, Texas — Deadly and destructive wildfires that ravaged southern California in January placed a new emphasis on risks in the Austin area, which experts say shares a similar wildfire threat.

The KVUE Defenders explored a specific aspect of that risk that is also the subject of renewed focus among emergency preparedness leaders, fire officials and some residents: Austin-area neighborhoods with limited evacuation routes and access for first responders.

Recent studies show Texas ranks third nationally for the number of homes at moderate to high risk of wildfire damage. And among U.S. cities, the Austin area ranks fifth for the number of homes at risk and total reconstruction value. The KVUE Defenders examined overall preparedness with a focus on areas where the ability to get reside

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