Mandatory Evacuations in Southern California as Line Fire Rages On
Thousands of residents in Southern California are facing mandatory evacuation orders due to the rapidly spreading Line Fire. This wildfire poses a significant threat to countless homes and businesses in San Bernardino County, situated east of Los Angeles.
Starting on Thursday, the blaze quickly escalated, prompting California Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency. By Sunday afternoon, the wildfire had consumed approximately 17,459 acres (27 square miles) and was reported to be 0% contained, marking it as the fifth-largest active wildfire in California after expanding four times its size on Saturday.
As of Sunday morning, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department issued evacuation orders for the communities of Running Springs and Arrowbear Lake, affecting over 6,000 residents. Additionally, the affected areas of Green Valley Lake, Cedar Glen, Lake Arrowhead, Crestline, and Valley of Enchantment have been warned that evacuations may be necessary without delay.
Fire officials have revealed that around 35,405 structures are currently at risk due to the fire’s relentless advance, threatening residential homes, commercial properties, and other structures. Local resident Brian Gano described the frightening proximity of the flames, stating, "The flames were right up on us because the wind shifted."
The cause of the Line Fire is still under investigation, as officials express concerns over the current weather conditions, which are contributing to unpredictable fire behavior. The extremely dry landscape is exacerbating the situation, while smoke is hindering aircraft operations and limiting their access to the fire-affected areas.
Three firefighters have sustained injuries while combating the blaze, and harsh weather conditions, including hot and dry air mixed with thunderstorms, are anticipated to persist in the coming days. Dangerous heat warnings are in effect across the southwestern U.S. and Southern California, extending into early next week.
Recent data indicates that the area burned during summer in Northern and Central California has quintupled from 1996 to 2021, a trend scientists attribute to human-induced climate change. While it is essential to recognize that not every wildfire can be directly linked to climate change, experts agree that such environmental changes are making extreme heat and drought—factors conducive to wildfires—more likely.
