How is "wildfire risk" defined?

"Wildfire risk" is defined as the likelihood of a wildfire occurring and its potential impacts. This definition encompasses both the probability of a wildfire starting and the consequences that may arise from such an event. Evaluating wildfire risk is crucial for effective management and prevention strategies, as it allows for the identification of areas most susceptible to fire and helps in understanding the potential severity of impact on ecosystems, human life, property, and resources.

Considering the other options, they are focused on specific aspects related to wildfire management or the state of natural resources. The potential for fire suppression failure pertains specifically to the reliability and capability of resources to manage a wildfire once it occurs, rather than assessing risk prior to an event. The effectiveness of emergency response teams is about how well they can react during an incident, but does not address the likelihood of a wildfire occurring or the broader implications. Lastly, the extent of forestation in an area may relate to factors influencing wildfire behavior, but it does not capture the comprehensive concept of risk, which includes both the chances of a wildfire igniting and its expected effects.