Line Fire in Southern California Grows Over 21,000 Acres, Evacuations Issued

An intense wildfire is raging through the foothills of Southern California’s San Bernardino County, posing a significant threat to over 36,000 structures, according to emergency officials.

The Line Fire ignited on September 5 and has consumed approximately 21,203 acres to the east of Los Angeles. As of the latest update, three firefighters have been injured as they work to control the fire, which is currently only 3% contained, as reported by Cal Fire.

Though no buildings have been reported damaged or destroyed as yet, Cal Fire indicated on Monday that 36,328 structures—including homes and commercial properties—are currently at risk due to the blaze. The fire has advanced quickly, fueled by dry conditions and high temperatures.

“The fire made short, intense runs in the slopes and lighter fuels, which allowed for extensive growth,” Cal Fire said in a statement. “Vegetation is critically dry, and an Excessive Heat Warning has been issued for the lower elevations in the area.”

Fire officials are implementing aerial strategies to combat the blazes. They plan to deploy night-flight capable aircraft as weather permits to maintain control over the fire’s spread.

As the week progresses, cooler weather is anticipated, which may help moderate fire activity below the marine layer. However, fire activity above this layer is expected to remain high, with concerns that spot fires could emerge outside established control lines, according to a statement from Cal Fire.

In response to the escalating situation, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for San Bernardino County. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered for residents in areas threatened by the fire, and these orders were expanded over the weekend as conditions worsened.

On Saturday, President Joe Biden approved California’s request for assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a move that Governor Newsom applauded.

“I thank President Biden for his swift approval of support for the work of our firefighters and first responders,” Newsom remarked, emphasizing the importance of keeping local communities safe.

Residents in affected areas have been urged to stay vigilant and prepare for potential evacuations as local authorities issue updates.

The cause of the Line Fire remains under investigation, leaving many in the region anxious about its origins.

In addition to the Line Fire, another significant blaze called the Bridge Fire started on Sunday afternoon in Los Angeles County. It has burned approximately 1,255 acres north of Azusa in the Angeles National Forest, and remains at 0% containment. Evacuation orders have been implemented for a mobile home park, nearby campgrounds, and a small river community. Night-flying helicopters are currently being used to help manage the situation.

Meanwhile, the Boyles Fire in Northern California’s Lake County, which also ignited on Sunday, has burned about 76 acres and is 30% contained. While progress is being made, Cal Fire noted that “forward progress has not been stopped.” Sadly, around 30 structures and between 40 to 50 vehicles have already been destroyed due to this fire.

Furthermore, firefighters are engaged in combating the Davis Fire in Washoe County, Nevada. It has burned across 6,500 acres and remains at 0% containment. The U.S. Forest Service reported that the fire is “burning in heavy timber and brush,” and gusty conditions are expected to persist throughout the week. At least 14 structures have been affected so far, and power outages continue, leaving portions of south Reno under evacuation notice, which impacts between 12,000 and 14,000 residents.

As fire teams work tirelessly to control these blazes, the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions and dry vegetation are causing great concern across the region, highlighting an intense wildfire season.

Source: ABC News