Over 10,000 residents have been ordered to evacuate amid a wildfire burning unchecked in Southern California. San Bernardino County’s eastern Los Angeles is one of thousands of homes and businesses threatened by the fast-spreading Line Fire, first reported on Thursday. By early Monday morning, the fire had spread to more than 20,000 acres, or 32 square miles, and was 0 percent contained. That’s enough to prompt Gov. Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency in California.
The fire began in the dense foliage and shrubs of rugged terrain in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. Powerful winds and dry conditions have allowed the advancing fire to spread at an uncontrollable rate, forcing hundreds of firefighters into a desperate battle against the raging inferno.
These mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for several areas across the San Bernardino and Riverside Counties; these include residential neighborhoods, rural communities, and popular recreation spots. Local emergency services are making sure the residents are safe while also making provisions with shelters and other resources for residents forced to flee.
“Evacuation is very important at this point to secure everybody, in the safety and security of all residents,” San Bernardino County Sheriff John McMahon said. “We are working out shelters and assistance. Please follow the evacuation orders and seek shelter.”
Emergency shelters are being set up in local schools and community centers, where displaced residents are temporarily being housed with support services. Volunteers in the area were distributing food, water, and other supplies to evacuees.
As of Monday afternoon, the line fire has burned approximately 20,000 acres and is still being actively battled. State firefighters have been mobilized to the area along with strike teams from neighboring states to fight to contain the fire. Efforts are being hindered, however, by high winds and bad conditions. Air support includes helicopters and water-dropping planes that are driving the attack from above, while ground crews are tussling to lay down containment lines to shield more populous regions.
Residents are advised to tune into local broadcasts and press releases for additional updates, with the government establishing a hotline to report properties and receive evacuation orders.
The fire has also worsened the quality of air in the region. The smoke created hazardous conditions that prompted the issuing of air quality warnings in multiple counties. Authorities asked people, especially people with respiratory issues, to stay indoors and use air purifiers, if available.
The cause of the line fire is still not known, and authorities are urging anyone with information regarding suspicious activity to contact law enforcement. “Fire safety is still very important as the situation develops,” officials said.
The destructive power of the fire, already showing devastating effects to the environment, would force local authorities to start assessing the damage and formulating plans on how the area must be rebuilt. It would take much time to rebuild homes, businesses, and other natural resources.
Meanwhile, efforts in containment are ongoing to subdue the fire and protect neighboring communities. Residents are advised to heed emergency orders and remain vigilant, putting themselves posted on developing situations.
Southern California’s Line Fire Forces
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