The state fire marshall says the maps are meant to help cities and counties plan new communities and should not affect the insurance rates of existing homes.

Most cities in the region saw an increase in land labeled a “very high” fire hazard, according to new maps released by Cal Fire Monday. This comes as Southern California continues to grapple with severe drought as a result of a La Niña weather pattern, raising the chances of devastating wildfires.

San Diego County saw a nearly 9% decrease in acreage with “very high” fire hazard compared to 2011, Cal Fire reported this week in a release of new maps for areas under local and county fire agency jurisdiction.