The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has just released a new map detailing the growing Line Fire in San Bernardino County, which poses a serious threat to many homes and vital infrastructure.
This wildfire has escalated quickly, leading Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency while teams work around the clock to contain it.
Starting Thursday evening and fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, the fire has already burned over 7,000 acres and is expected to impact more than 17,000 acres as it continues to spread through Southern California.
Evacuations have been ordered in affected communities, such as Highlands, as firefighters face challenges establishing containment lines. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Governor Newsom’s emergency declaration, issued on Saturday afternoon, will help mobilize additional state resources and personnel while also securing federal aid to support firefighting efforts.
In his statement, he expressed gratitude to President Biden for quick approval of federal support, emphasizing the need for residents to stay alert and ready to evacuate if necessary.
Additionally, California has obtained a Fire Management Assistance Grant from FEMA to ensure crucial resources are available for fire suppression.
A new wildfire map from Frontline Wildfire Defense shows a significant area affected, indicating the fire’s dangerous proximity to populated regions. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has issued evacuation orders for several areas, including:
- The region from Calle Del Rio to Highway 38, including Greenspot Road North
- All undeveloped land east of Highway 330 stretching to Summertrail Place, north of Highland Avenue
- Running Spring east of Highway 330 and south of Highway 18
- The communities of Running Springs and Arrow Bear Lake
- The area from Orchard Road to Cloverhill, extending from Highland Avenue to the foothills
- North of Highland Avenue and east of Palm Avenue up to Highway 330
Approximately 500 firefighters are currently engaged in battling the fire, utilizing aerial support from water-dropping helicopters and aircraft. Officials warn that the blaze has the potential for significant growth.
This fire is one of the most severe incidents so far in California’s 2024 fire season, which has already been plagued by extreme heat and a prolonged drought, creating the perfect conditions for wildfires.
Air quality in surrounding areas is also deteriorating due to thick smoke spreading across large regions.
Residents seeking the latest information on active fires and safety preparedness can visit fire.ca.gov and ready.ca.gov.