Line Fire Continues in San Bernardino County, Thousands Evacuated as Blaze Spreads
A massive wildfire, dubbed the Line Fire, continues to scorch its way through San Bernardino County, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate as the blaze rapidly expands, CBS News reports.
The fire, which ignited Thursday evening near Base Line and Aplin streets in the city of Highland, has grown at an alarming pace, fueled by dry conditions and scorching temperatures. By Saturday, the fire had consumed over 7,000 acres, prompting San Bernardino County officials to issue a proclamation of emergency.
The situation took a dramatic turn on Sunday as the fire generated its own weather system, producing over 1,100 lightning strikes and strong winds that further fueled the blaze. Cal Fire described the fire’s behavior as “very erratic” due to “thunderstorm outflow winds.”
As of Monday morning, the Line Fire had engulfed over 25,813 acres and was only 5% contained, prompting widespread evacuations.
The entire communities of Running Springs, Arrowbear Lake, Forest Falls, and Mountain Home Village, with a combined population of over 6,000, were placed under mandatory evacuation orders. Thousands more in surrounding mountain communities, including Green Valley Lake, Cedar Glen, Lake Arrowhead, Crestline, Valley of Enchantment, Angelus Oaks, and Seven Oaks, were issued evacuation warnings.
In response to the escalating situation, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on Saturday, allowing for the deployment of additional resources and funding.
On Monday, Governor Newsom activated the California National Guard, deploying 80 soldiers, four Blackhawk helicopters, and two C-130 cargo planes to aid firefighting efforts. The National Guard will also provide a military police company to assist local law enforcement in evacuated areas.
Despite the influx of resources, firefighters face a formidable challenge in battling the Line Fire. The stifling heat and dry conditions continue to hinder firefighting operations, with firefighters working tirelessly around the clock to protect residents and structures.
While firefighters have managed to increase containment to 3%, the threat posed by the Line Fire remains significant.
