A recent wildfire in Stourbridge destroyed 19 homes across five streets, yet some neighbouring properties remained undamaged. This uneven pattern of destruction has left residents, such as Pritpal Boyal and David Price, mystified.
Dudley Council confirmed that 85 out of 96 evacuated families were able to return to their homes, with 13 households whose homes were damaged also able to go back. Aerial images showed the stark contrast between burnt-out houses and those that appeared to escape the flames.
Dr Tony Fogarty, a fire safety expert, explained that a fire's behaviour is influenced by several factors, including wind, intense heat, and burning embers. He added that the presence of materials like fences, sheds, decking, or dry vegetation near a property can provide fuel, while patios or areas without vegetation can act as firebreaks.
Dr Fogarty also noted that radiant heat from a fire can cause damage or ignition even without direct flame contact. He said that dry conditions amplify the risk, as small ignition sources can spread rapidly when wind carries flames and embers.