A raging wildfire in Southern California has forced over 10,000 people to evacuate, threatening thousands of homes and businesses. The Line Fire, which started Thursday, spread rapidly overnight Saturday, prompting Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency.
On Monday, the fire had grown to over 20,000 acres, with 0% containment. It’s now the fourth-largest active wildfire in California after quadrupling in size Saturday. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department issued evacuation orders for several communities, including Running Springs and Arrowbear Lake, with a combined population of over 6,000.
Fire officials warn that 36,328 structures are threatened, including homes, businesses, and minor structures. Resident Brian Gano described the intense flames, saying, “The wind shifted, and the flames were right up on us.”
The cause of the fire is under investigation, but officials say current weather conditions are causing erratic fire behavior. Hot and dry conditions, mixed with thunderstorms, will challenge firefighters. Smoke from the fire has created “fire clouds,” which can produce hurricanes and lightning, generating even more fires.
Scientists link the increase in burned areas in California to human-caused climate change. While each wildfire can’t directly affect climate change, scientists say it’s making conditions like heat and drought more likely.
The Line Fire is a rapidly spreading wildfire in Southern California, forcing thousands to evacuate and threatening thousands of structures. Firefighters face challenging weather conditions, and scientists warn that climate change increases the likelihood of such disasters.
