Those cities that are listed as particularly wicked, beginning with Jacobugath, are burned. This places the opening disclosure of the burning of Zarahemla in a more symbolic context. These cities are specifically noted as those who cast out and stoned prophets. Thus these are cities that particularly rejected the gospel and the message from God. Their destruction by fire should be seen in the context of scriptural fulfillment for the events that occur with the Messiah comes. Note the reference from Psalms:
Psalms 11:6
6 Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, fire and brimstone, and an horrible tempest: this shall be the portion of their cup.
This verse must have been particularly significant for those who knew it and lived through these events.