The Witch Creek & Poomacha Wildfires Closed Claim Study covers some of the same ground as the Mega Fires report, comparing wildfire resistant communities to traditional communities in the affected areas, and investigating other factors thought to contribute to risk. However, the data used in this study includes the claims (or absence of claims) experience for 21,768 residential exposures insured by 6 companies offering property and casualty coverage in the area at the time of the fire.  

This dataset represents 27% of the estimated 13,000 residential claims and 24% of the total estimated $1.1 billion losses. The data were analyzed for both frequency and severity of claims. 

Because the roof is considered a major factor in vulnerability, data also included information on roof covering types. The findings provide some evidence that code requirements for Class A asphalt shingles have helped reduce claim severity for homes with asphalt shingle roofs. 

Because these two fires occurred simultaneously and eventually merged, it is impossible to determine which fire caused losses for properties near the perimeter of both fires. As a result, exposures affected by either the Witch Creek or Poomacha wildfires are included in this study.