The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

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Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The region’s three largest fires — the Bridge, Airport and Line fires — all started in early September during a stretch of extremely hot days.

Below, see updates on the fires, including size, containment and evacuation information.

California Wildfires Sep 17

Arson suspect pleads not guilty to starting San Bernardino County wildfire that forced evacuations

San Bernardino County Sep 16

Pit bull found wandering around near Line Fire in Beaumont is up for adoption

Bridge Fire

The 54,700-acre Bridge Fire was 37-percent contained Wednesday with evacuation warnings lifted and evacuation orders downgraded to warnings in both Wrightwood and Mt. Baldy.

Water-dropping aircraft were putting out hot spots around the southeast corner of the fire zone. Secondary containment lines were being established on the south side of the fire. The northwest flank of the fire still has scattered flames. To the east, firefighters were constructing a line south from Wright Mountain to prevent the fire from reaching Lytle Creek.

The fire has destroyed 73 structures and damaged 16 others.

In Los Angeles County, an evacuation order remained in effect for the East Fork communities, including Camp Williams Resort and the nearby River Community.

In San Bernardino County, evacuation orders remained in effect for the area north of Icehouse Canyon and along Big Pines Canyon road to the community of Big Pines.

An evacuation order that was in effect for the entire Wrightwood community was changed to an evacuation warning Tuesday.

An evacuation warning also remained in place for Shin Road north to Icehouse Canyon.

The fire began Sept. 8 near East Fork and Glendora Mountain roads.

Line Fire

The Line Fire, which was caused by arson, has burned more than 39,100 acres in San Bernardino County. Containment Wednesday was at 50 percent.

Evacuation orders remain in effect due to a closure order for National Forest lands, trails, and roads, including the San Gorgonio Wilderness. Evacuation warnings are in effect for thearea of Big Bear Valley east of the dam and west of McAllister Road, including Fawnskin; all of Green Valley Lake, Running Springs, Arrowbear Lake, Angelus Oaks, Seven Oaks and all campgrounds and cabins in the area.

Highway 330 is closed northbound from Highland Avenue to Live Oak.

Minimal fire growth was reported overnight due largely to the drop in temperatures. Partly cloudy conditions are expected Wednesday, which should help firefighters increase containment and mop up hot spots.

There have been multiple drone incursions over the Line Fire area, according to fire officials.

“This impedes our firefighting operations and can have deadly consequences,” Cal Fire said. ” Please be respectful of those fighting the fire and the community members who are impacted by fire. Never fly drones near wildfire. If you fly, we can’t.”

A Norco man who was accused of starting the fire pleaded not guilty in San Bernardino County.

The Line Fire destroyed one structure and damaged four others. 

Airport Fire

The 23,500-acre Airport Fire in Orange and Riverside counties was 31-percent contained. Area of increased containment included Lake Elsinore, Decker Canyon Road and Lakeland Village.

Cooler temperatures have helped firefighters, who continued water drops on Santiago Peak. Downed powerlines were posing a hazard, and firefighters are working with utility companies on Ortega Highway to find hot spots and perform repairs.

In Orange County, people in Caspers Regional Park, San Juan Springs, Blue Jay campground were ordered to evacuate, while a larger number of neighborhoods were under evacuation orders and evacuation warnings in Riverside County.

Evacuation warnings were in place in Orange County for portions of Ortega Highway, Robinson Ranch HOA, Trabuco Highlands HOA, Trabuco Highland
Apartment Complex, the East Side of Coto de Caza, Silverado Canyon, Modjeska Canyon, Rose Canyon Road, Trabuco Creek Road, Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Oaks Drive, Joplin Loop, Cook’s Corner, Dove Canyon, El Cariso.

The fire started Sept. 9 in Trabuco Canyon and spread from Orange County into Riverside County.

The wildfire smoke advisory issued by the South Coast Air Quality Management District will remain in effect until 11 p.m. Wednesday as smoke from the Bridge, Line and Airport fires in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside and Orange counties affects air quality across the region.

Smoke from the Bridge and Line fires in Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties is expected to impact areas in the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear and Mt. Baldy.

“Big Bear is expected to reach the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups AQI category or higher on Wednesday afternoon,” the SCAQMD said in a statement Tuesday. “Most other smoke-impacted areas are expected to be in the Moderate AQI category or higher.”

AIR QUALITY ADVISORY UPDATE (Tuesday, September 17th): https://t.co/Y158OoPtBX#Wildfire Smoke Advisory covering the #BridgeFire, #LineFire, and #AirportFire has been extended pic.twitter.com/SwNKjEj1Ip

— South Coast AQMD (@SouthCoastAQMD) September 17, 2024

The Line Fire has burned more than 39,000 acres with containment at 49 percent. The Bridge Fire was at 54,700 acres with containment at 25 percent.

Smoke impacts from the Airport Fire in Orange and Riverside counties is expected to be more localized, according to the SCAQMD. The wildfire that started in Orange County before spreading to Riverside County burned 23,519 acres at 31% containment.

Wildfires Sep 17

SoCal wildfires: Cooler weather helping fire crews but challenges remain

California Wildfires Sep 17

Arson suspect pleads not guilty to starting San Bernardino County wildfire that forced evacuations

The agency offered the following tips for people in areas impacted by wildfire smoke.

• Limit your exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed or seeking alternate shelter.
• Avoid vigorous physical activity.
• Run your air conditioning and/or an air purifier. If possible, do not use swamp coolers or whole house fans that bring in outside air.
• Avoid burning wood in your fireplace or firepit and minimize sources of indoor air pollution such as candles, incense, pan-frying, and grilling.
• If you must be outside, a properly fit N95 or P100 respirator may provide some protection.

Bridge Fire

The wildfire that has been burning in Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties scorched 54,795 acres as of Tuesday at 25% containment. 

Cal Fire said fire crews Tuesday will prioritize securing containment lines and removing hazards to allow displaced residents to get back to their homes.

In Wrightwood, firefighters faced safety hazards such as falling trees and smoldering debris. 

Evacuation orders remained in place for Wrightwood and Mt. Baldy Road north of the San Antonio Dam up to the Mt. Baldy Resort. 

The Bridge Fire destroyed 66 structures and damaged 13 others while it continued to threaten more than 3,600 structures.

Line Fire

As the wildfire burned 39,111 acres with nearly half of it contained as of Tuesday, a Norco man who was accused of starting the fire pleaded not guilty in San Bernardino County.

Justin Wayne Halstenberg, 34, entered the plea to arson-related crimes from jail in a video arraignment. He was denied bail and appointed an attorney. Halstenberg’s next court appearance is set for Monday.

The Line Fire destroyed one structure and damaged four others. 

More than 36,000 remained under the threat of the blaze as fire crews were expected to strengthen control lines and mop up hot spots Tuesday.

Evacuation orders were still in effect for all National Forest lands, trails and roads as well as undeveloped land east of Highway 330 and Summertrail Place and north of Highland Avenue.

California Wildfires Sep 17

Arson suspect pleads not guilty to starting San Bernardino County wildfire that forced evacuations

San Bernardino County Sep 16

Pit bull found wandering around near Line Fire in Beaumont is up for adoption

Airport Fire

The wildfire that started in Orange County before spreading to Riverside County burned 23,519 acres at 31% containment.

Though it may be smaller in the number of acres scorched, nearly 200 structures were destroyed while 34 were damaged. And over 20,000 properties were still under the threat of the blaze.

While the favorable weather continues to have helped fire crews, they were concerned about drier conditions that were forecast for the weekend with highs in the 80s and 90s.

Twelve firefighters were injured while two civilians were hurt in the Airport Fire. 

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Justin Wayne Halstenberg, 34, entered the plea to arson-related crimes from jail in a video arraignment. He was denied bail and appointed an attorney. Halstenberg’s next court appearance is set for Monday.

San Bernardino County Sep 16

Pit bull found wandering around near Line Fire in Beaumont is up for adoption

California Wildfires Sep 13

Line Fire in San Bernardino County leaves thousands of residents displaced

Halstenberg was charged with arson and other crimes related to the fire, including aggravated arson, arson causing great bodily injury, arson of residence, three counts of arson of forest land, and three counts of using an incendiary device. More charges are possible as the fire continues to burn, prosecutors said.

He was arrested after investigators reviewed surveillance camera video and automatic licenses plate readers after the fire ignited around 6:30 p.m. Sept. 5 near Base Line Road and Aplin Street in Highland. About 73,000 buildings were threatened by flames, which led to evacuation orders and warnings.

Some evacuation warnings and orders remain in effect.

Investigators carried out a search at the suspect’s home and found evidence supporting an arrest, according to authorities. They also located the pickup sought in connection with the arson investigation.

If convicted as charged, the suspect could be sentenced to 10 years up to life in prison.

The Line Fire is 49-percent contained at 39,111 acres as of Tuesday.

Cal Fire first reported that the pit bull with clipped ears was found around the Line Fire Incident Command Post in Beaumont on Thursday.

According to Cal Fire, the pit bull is friendly. He made friends with every firefighter he met, asking them for pets. 

“This dog is a gentle love bug and providing kisses and snuggles is his MO! He’s not food motivated, not a big fetcher, really more of a walk around and check things out kind of a dude as his golden coat glistens in the sun,” Cal Fire said in a social media post. 

He was taken to Haven Pet Center in San Jacinto where they named him “Chief.”

It seems Chief did not have anyone claim him and he is now up for adoption.

Anyone interested in adopting the fire dog Chief is urged to call the Haven Pet Center in San Jacinto at 951-654-8022 for more details.

It costs $175 and that includes up-to-date vaccinations, neutering, and microchipping, Cal Fire said.

PIT BULL PUPDATE 🐶
No one has come to claim the friendly golden pit bull that was wandering around the #LineFire Incident Command Post asking for pets from the firefighters in Beaumont.
So this morning, Haven Pet Center put him up for adoption!
And get this: The folks at Haven… pic.twitter.com/ysEGAGAWQd

— CAL FIRE BDU (@CALFIREBDU) September 15, 2024

A Cal Fire battalion chief saw the woman in a dress walking on Ortega Highway Tuesday night in the El Cariso neighborhood of Lake Elsinore. Glowing embers danced at the women’s feet as strong wind gusts fanned nearby flames.

California Wildfires Sep 16

Bridge Fire grows to 54,600 acres. See updates on 3 major Southern California wildfires

Wildfires Sep 15

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Cal Fire Battalion Chief Michael Martinez was in a department vehicle when he arrived at the haunting scene.

“This is one of those moments that you hope you never come across,” said Cal Fire Battallion Chief Michael Martinez. “As we came out, I was one of the last ones in line, just watching to see the progression of the fire. I just saw this person walking down the middle of the highway with fire on both sides.”

Martinez rushed the woman down the canyon to paramedics in Lake Elsinore waiting in an ambulance. The woman suffered burns, but was expected to recover, according to fire officials.

“We’re all extremely proud,” said Orange County Fire Authority public information office Steve Concialdi. “He did an outstanding job.”

The Airport Fire in Orange and Riverside counties started Sept. 9. It has burned more than 23,500 acres with containment Monday at 31 percent. Evacuations remain in effect for some areas.

The fires sparked during a week of triple-digit heat. But as temperatures start to cool down, firefighters are working with more favorable conditions.

Last week, Gov. Gavin Newsom visited Southern California and declared a state of emergency for San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Riverside and Orange counties.

Thousands of fire personnel continue working to control and extinguish the flames that have left homes and other structures damaged and displaced thousands of residents.

Bridge Fire

The Bridge Fire continues to burn over 54,000 acres in Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties on Monday.

More than 2,000 fire personnel continue battling the fire which continues to be the largest active fire in California.

The Bridge Fire is burning 54,774 acres and is 25% contained as of Monday evening. The fire has destroyed at least 54 structures and damaged 13 others.

A community meeting about the fire will be streamed here.

For a full list of evacuation orders, warnings, road closures and shelter information on the Bridge Fire visit the Cal Fire website.

Line Fire

In San Bernardino County, the Line Fire continues to burn 39,026 acres and is now 49% contained.

Over 3,000 fire personnel continue battling the fire that has left thousands of residents displaced.

All schools and offices in the San Bernardino County Unified School District have reopened on Monday after they had closed down due to the fire.

“We are pleased to inform you that after careful consideration, we are ready to welcome everyone back to our schools and offices on Monday, September 16, 2024,” Superintendent Mauricio V. Arellano said. “Thank you for your patience and we look forward to seeing our scholars return to our campuses excited to learn.”

For a full list of evacuation orders, warnings, road closures and shelter information on the Line Fire visit the Cal Fire website.

Airport Fire

In Orange and Riverside Counties, the Airport Fire continues to burn over 23,000 acres.

The fire had burned 23,519 acres and was 31% contained as of Monday evening.

A team of over 2,000 fire personnel continue fighting the flames that have destroyed 160 structures and damaged 34 others. At least 14 injures have been reported due to the Airport Fire.

For a full list of evacuation orders, warnings, road closures and shelter information on the Airport Fire visit the Cal Fire website.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

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Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

Containment on the Line Fire grows as firefighters use cooler temperatures to strengthen control lines in San Bernardino County.

The Line Fire has burned 38,417 acres and containment is at 29% as of Saturday night.

Clear skies and seasonable temperatures in the area have provided favorable conditions in the fight against the blaze, according to Cal Fire.

“Tonight, cool temperatures and light and variable winds are expected. Fire growth will continue to be moderated by cooler weather.  Firefighters are strengthening control lines and mopping up hot spots,” wrote Cal Fire in their latest update.

For the latest information on evacuation orders, warnings, road closures and shelters visit the Cal Fire website.

“The Wrightwood water system, working with the State Water Resources Control Board, has determined through comprehensive testing that Wrightwood’s water is safe to drink. Customers no longer need to consume bottled water.  However, customers should flush their taps only after the evacuation order is lifted,” wrote the Golden State Water Company.

The company issued the advisory due to concerns that the water system in Wrightwood was impacted by the ongoing Bridge Fire. It was believed that on Saturday morning the water system experienced a loss of pressure in some areas of Wrightwood, making way for harmful contaminants.

Wildfires Sep 14

Bridge Fire remains as SoCal's largest active fire at 53,000 acres

Wildfires Sep 11

Three major wildfires burn across Southern California

With the loss of pressure, dangerous contaminants like benzene and other volatile organic chemicals could make their way into the water.

Reports circulating about customers being unable to use water for bathing were also disproven by the Golden State Water Company.

“It has come to our attention that there are reports circulating about customers being unable to use water for bathing. We want to clarify that these reports are inaccurate,” wrote the Golden State Water Company.

For more information on water quality or how to flush the water system click here.

The Bridge Fire, which is currently Southern California’s largest active wildfire, has consumed more than 52,000 acres in Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties as of Saturday. At least 19 structures in its path were destroyed and firefighters remain battling it.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

Firefighters on Saturday continued to battle the Bridge Fire that spread from San Gabriel Canyon above Glendora into San Bernardino County and burned 53,738 acres. It raged as the largest active fire in Southern California.

As of Saturday evening, the fire was 5% contained, primarily on the southwestern flank, according to CalFire.

“Today, the Bridge Fire had minimal movement,” Cal Fire said in the latest update Saturday. “Firefighters continued to mop-up hot spots, establish or strengthen containment lines along the entire perimeter of the fire where accessible to do so. Resources were focused on the northern area of the fire where air operations dropped water as needed along the fire line near the communities of Big Pines and Wrightwood.

Bridge Fire

Wildfires Sep 11

Three major wildfires burn across Southern California

California Wildfires Sep 13

Snow-makers save Mountain High ski resort from Bridge Fire

“Although the fire is slowly backing downhill on the east side, firefighters are not letting their guard down in Icehouse Canyon where the rugged terrain still presents some challenges. Heat and active flames are also still present in the Mt.Baldy Village area, and crews continue to prioritize structure protection.

“A marine weather inversion aided crews along the southern boundary in establishing direct line, extending from the southwest toward the east with mop-up. Favorable winds are also keeping the west side of the fire within its current footprint where the steepest and most rugged terrain lies within the wilderness.”

Fire officials said humidity is still low in higher elevations, but in lower elevations, the marine layer and higher humidity were helping crews make “great progress in strengthening both primary and secondary containment lines in the southeast, south and southwest flanks of the fire, while also gaining depth in their mop-up operations.”

The Incident Management Team scheduled a public meeting at 6 p.m. Saturday at Serrano High School Performing Arts Center, 9292 Sheep Creek Road in Phelan that will be live streamed on the Angeles National Forest Facebook page.

The blaze began at 3 p.m. last Sunday near East Fork and Glendora Mountain roads, according to forest officials. The fire initially remained relatively small, but it exploded in size at the tail end of an extended heat wave on Tuesday, destroying dozens of structures as it marched into San Bernardino County.

It is the largest active fire in the state.

Evacuation orders

• the entire community of Wrightwood
• Highway 138 south to Lone Pine Canyon and Highway 2 east to Lone Pine Canyon Road;
• Lone Pine Canyon from the community of Wrightwood to Highway 138/Lone Pine Canyon Road south to the forest;
• East Fork communities of Camp Williams Resort (cafe, mobile home park, campground) and River Community (near the resort); and
• Mt. Baldy Road, North Mountain Avenue and Shinn Roads from San Antonio Heights to Wrightwood and east to Cucamonga Peak.

A mandatory evacuation order that had been in place in the area of Highway 18 south to Highway 138 and Beekley Road west to the Los Angeles County line was downgraded to a warning.

Evacuation warnings

• Phelan from Highway 138 east to Baldy Mesa Road and Phelan Road south to Sayle Road;
• San Antonio Heights and Upland from the foothills south to 23rd Street;
• Pinon Hills from Wrightwood north to Highway 138 and Lebec Road west to Los Angeles County.

Evacuation warnings were lifted Friday in the communities of Baldwin Lake and Lake Williams from Highway 38 north to Highway 18 and Baldwin Lake East, and in the area of Phelan Road south to Forest Route 3N24 and Baldy Mesa Road west to Tumbleweed Road.

Evacuation centers

• Pomona Fairplex: 601 W McKinley Ave., Pomona (Enter Gate 3, corner of McKinley and White);
• Hacienda Heights Community Center, 1234 Valencia Ave.;
• Jessie Turner Center, 15556 Summit Ave., in Fontana.

Animal evacuation centers

• Palmdale Animal Care Center (small animals): 38550 Sierra Highway, Palmdale;
• Lancaster Animal Care Center (small animals): 5210 W. Ave. I, Lancaster;
• Antelope Valley Fairgrounds (large animals): 2551 W. Ave. H, Lancaster (call 562-706-8581 prior to arrival);
• Devore Animal Shelter (pets/livestock): 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino (call 909-386-9820, or after hours 800-472-5609).

Road closures

• SR-138 from Lone Pine Canyon Road to Beekley Road;
• SR-2 closed from Big Pines to SR-138;
• Big Pines Highway;
• Big Rock Creek Road;
• San Gabriel Canyon and East Fork of the San Gabriel River;
• Highway 39;
• East Fork Road;
• Glendora Ridge Road;
• Glendora Mountain Road; and
• Mount Baldy Road at Shinn Road intersection

Cal Fire officials estimated that the fire had destroyed 19 residential, commercial and other structures and damaged another six. However, more than 11,000 structures were still being threatened as of Saturday.

No significant injuries were reported.

This live blog is no longer being updated. Click here for wildfire updates.

Firefighters are gaining ground on three major wildfires that have forced evacuations, destroyed homes and burned tens of thousands of acres in early September.

See live updates on the Airport, Line, Bridge and other wildfires.

The Bridge Fire burning in Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties continues to be the largest active fire in California on Friday.

It has burned 51, 884 acres with 3% containment as of Friday morning, according to Cal Fire. A team of over 2,000 fire personnel continued battling the flames.

California Wildfires Sep 12

Bridge Fire is the largest active fire in California burning over 50,000 acres

Wildfires Sep 12

Holistic center consumed by Bridge Fire flames in Wrightwood

“The Bridge Fire moved through parts of Mountain High Resort overnight. As of 11 a.m. this morning, reports indicate that base facilities at all 3 Resorts (East, West, & North) remain intact,” the Mountain High ski resort said in a statement on Wednesday.

Crews turned on the snow-makers, helping to save the resort from being destroyed in the fire.

‘We’re not out of the woods yet – there is a lot of work to be done but nothing that would keep us from opening on time in November,” the resort said in a social media post on Thursday. “More updates to come as we evaluate the damage and plot our course forward.”

On Thursday, the Baldy Village evacuation order was expanded from San Antonio Heights to Wrightwood and east to Cucamonga Peak, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

The fire started on Sept. 8 in the Angeles National Forest and spread to San Bernardino County.

For a full list of evacuation orders, warnings, road closures and shelter information visit the Cal Fire website.

Some evacuation orders were lifted for residents who live near the area where the Airport Fire continues to burn.

According to the Orange County Fire Authority, evacuation orders have been downgraded for both Orange and Riverside counties.

California Wildfires Sep 12

Time-lapse video shows dramatic spread of Airport Fire in Orange, Riverside counties

California Wildfires Sep 12

‘Everything is gone.' Airport Fire destroys cabins in OC's Holy Jim Canyon

As of Friday morning, the fire is burning 23,494 acres with 8% containment, according to Cal Fire.

Mandatory evacuation orders for the Robinson Ranch community were downgraded to voluntary evacuation warnings, the OCFA said. Road closures remain in effect and resident-only access is permitted for Plano Trabuco Road at Joshua Drive and Plano Trabuco Road at Robinson Ranch Road.

“Residents are now permitted to return to their homes, but must provide proof of residency upon entry. It is imperative that residents remain vigilant and be prepared if conditions change,” OCFA said.

The fire started in the Trabuco Canyon area of Orange County but quickly spread to Riverside County.

Over 700 fire personnel continue battling the flames that have damaged seven structures and destroyed two others. At least 12 injuries have been reported due to the Airport Fire.

For a full list of evacuation orders, warnings, road closures and shelter information visit the Cal Fire website.

The #AirportFire is currently at 23,410 acres with 5% of it contained. Evacuation levels have been downgraded in both Orange and Riverside Counties. Firefighters are actively working to reinforce containment lines southwest of the fire. >>> pic.twitter.com/Ttf7Xnl4s7

— OCFA PIO (@OCFireAuthority) September 13, 2024

The fire is currently burning 27,743 acres and is 21% contained as of Friday morning. 

California Wildfires Sep 12

Norco arson suspect charged in San Bernardino County Line Fire

Wildfires Sep 11

Will Big Bear's beloved bald eagles be OK with the Line Fire?

According to Cal Fire, 11,400 residents are under evacuation orders and 54,700 are under evacuation warnings.

One family in Running Springs saw their home destroyed by the fire. They took what they could as they followed evacuation orders and left their home. 

The bikes of young children were left scorched by the flames outside the home where only a chimney could be seen.

“I was grabbing things in their closet, like their baby books and things, and I just started crying and touching the walls as I was going by,” Brook Palenchar said.

The flames also continue to threaten 65,100 structures in the area. 

The cause of the Line Fire was determined to be arson. San Bernardino County prosecutors charged Justin Wayne Halstenberg with arson on Thursday as well as other crimes related to the fire.

For a full list of evacuation orders, warnings, road closures and shelter information visit the Cal Fire website.

Flames that swept through Orange County’s Holy Jim Canyon left behind the rubble of recreational cabins in a patch of Cleveland National Forest considered a treasured mountain retreat.

The Airport Fire started Monday about two miles from the nearly three dozen cabins in eastern Orange County. Many were destroyed that afternoon by flames that climbed a canyon wall.

California Wildfires Sep 12

Time-lapse video shows dramatic spread of Airport Fire in Orange, Riverside counties

California Wildfires Sep 10

Map: See where fires are burning in Southern California

Arturo Payan said his cabin is likely among them. He just signed the paperwork for Cabin No. 29 about one month ago.

“I put all my heart, effort, money (into it),” Payan said. “Now it’s gone, but I’m alive.”

Some of the cabins were built in the early 1900s.

Holly Permeh has owned one for about five years. She used a quad bike to ride up to the property Wednesday to see what was left.

“Horrific. I thought I would be able to get some souveniers, just something,” Permeh said. “It all melted. Everything is gone.

“It’s kind of a place just to get away from the hustle and bustle of OC. Just a place for my son and I to go, spend some time. Just seeing the devastation first hand just made it real.”

The Airport Fire has burned more than 23,000 acres in Orange and Riverside counties. It is one of three major wildfires burning in Southern California.

Cooler temperatures were in the forecast, which will aid firefighters as they try to increase containment of the fire that has destroyed an unknown number of homes, and injured 10 firefighters and two other people.

So far in 2024, California’s state firefighting agency has reported more than 6,000 wildfires that burned more than 977,000 acres. The acreage burned is a dramatic increase from 2023, when Cal Fire reported 5,053 wildfires that burned 253,755 acres. The five-year average is 5,912 wildfires and 868,803 acres burned.

Tensions had been on the rise since Thursday when the Line Fire, which investigators determined to be a case of arson, broke out near Highland to the south. Flames were visible from the Palenchars’ house the next day and evacuations were ordered on Saturday.

California Wildfires Sep 12

Norco arson suspect charged in San Bernardino County Line Fire

California Wildfires Sep 10

Map: See where fires are burning in Southern California

“I had this really strong feeling as I was leaving,” said Palenchar. “I’m like, ‘I just knew it was going to get lost.'”

The home was destroyed with only the chimney left standing and children’s burned bicycles in the rubble. The beloved house was home to the Palenchars and their three young children, ages 5, 7 and 12. They tried to pack what they could before it was time to evacuate.

“It was so chaotic, and I was just like telling each kid to grab a special bag so they could put their things in,” Palenchar said. “I was grabbing things in their closet, like their baby books and things, and I just started crying and touching the walls as I was going by.

“I think every day’s been a little more tearful and a little bit harder to process.”

Palenchar grew up in the house. She left to start a family, then returned to the home to raise most of her nine children.

Family members have not been allowed to return to the property due to evacuation orders, but they have seen the destruction in news reports.

“It’s just so tough to see,” said son Finn Haskins. “I mean, you see the chimney and then the top of it shows the fireplace of our living room that we spent multiple Christmases and Thanksgivings.

“My whole family gathered around the couch watching it. And it’s just, it’s tough times.”

Palenchar said the family has received support from neighbors in the wake of the tragedy.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the amount of generosity and people just offering support and kindness,” she said.

A 34-year-old Norco man has been charged in connection with the wildfire that burned more than 37,000 acres and forced evacuations in San Bernardino County. Containment was at 18 percent Thursday.

The Line Fire is one of three major fires burning in Southern California.

On Wednesday, Newsom traveled to Southern California and declared a state of emergency for Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange and Riverside counties.

Newsom had already declared a state of emergency due to the Line Fire on Saturday Sept. 7 in San Bernardino County.

According to a statement on his website, Newsom visited the site of the Line Fire in Highland on Wednesday. There, he was briefed on the fire and visited neighborhoods on the edge of the Line Fire. 

He was also briefed by CAL FIRE and emergency response officials on the ongoing response to the Bridge and Airport fires in Southern California, the site said. 

“California is deploying every available resource to combat these devastating fires, and we’ll continue to work in lockstep with federal and local partners in this herculean effort. We are deeply grateful to all the heroic firefighters and first responders on the ground working 24/7 to keep Californians safe,” Newsom said. 

The Bridge Fire, currently the largest active fire in California, continues to burn over 50,000 acres and is affecting Los Angeles and San Bernardino County. 

The Line Fire is burning over 37,000 acres and continues to affect San Bernardino County. As of Thursday, the fire was 18% contained.

The Airport Fire in Trabuco Canyon is affecting Orange and Riverside counties, burning over 23,000 acres. The fire is only 5% contained as of Thursday.

Today, Governor @GavinNewsom proclaimed a state of emergency to support the ongoing response to the #BridgeFire & #AirportFire following federal assistance secured in the last 24hrs.

First responders have been working 24/7 to protect Riverside, Orange & LA mountain communities. pic.twitter.com/gacqSs32Qe

— California Governor (@CAgovernor) September 12, 2024

San Bernardino County prosecutors charged Justin Wayne Halstenberg with arson and other crimes related to the fire, including aggravated arson, arson causing great bodily injury, arson of residence, three counts of arson of forest land, and three counts of using an incendiary device. More charges are possible as the fire continues to burn, prosecutors said.

California Wildfires Sep 12

Time-lapse video shows dramatic spread of Airport Fire in Orange, Riverside counties

California Wildfires Sep 10

Map: See where fires are burning in Southern California

Halstenberg was arrested on suspicion of arson after investigators reviewed surveillance camera video and automatic licenses plate readers after the fire ignited around 6:30 p.m. Sept. 5 near Base Line Road and Aplin Street in Highland. About 73,000 buildings were threatened by flames, which led to evacuation orders and warnings.

The 37,200-acre fire was 18-percent contained Thursday morning.

Investigators carried out a search at the suspect’s home and found evidence supporting an arrest, according to authorities. They also located the pickup sought in connection with the arson investigation.

“It’s my belief that as time goes on – and we allow them to do the critical work that they’re doing – that we will actually find out this suspect may have been responsible for other fires,” San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus said during a news conference Wednesday.

If convicted as charged, the suspect could be sentenced to 10 years up to life in prison.

The Line Fire is one of three major wildfires burning in Southern California.

So far in 2024, California’s state firefighting agency has reported more than 6,000 wildfires that burned more than 977,000 acres. The acreage burned is a dramatic increase from 2023, when Cal Fire reported 5,053 wildfires that burned 253,755 acres. The five-year average is 5,912 wildfires and 868,803 acres burned.

Over 100,000 residents are being impacted by the fire which is also threatening over 65,000 structures. 

The fire is currently burning 37,589 acres with 21% containment, according to Cal Fire. It was first reported on Thursday Sept. 5 at around 6:30 p.m.

Since it began, at least three structures have been damaged and one other destroyed. 

A team of over 3,000 fire personnel continue battling the flames along with 16 helicopters. 

Law enforcement officials announced the arrest of a man on suspicion of intentionally starting the fire.

Investigators say 34-year-old Justin Wayne Halstenberg is being held without bail. 

Detectives searched his home and vehicle and found evidence connecting him to the Line Fire. They also believe Halstenberg may be responsible for setting other fires. 

“I’m angry, upset, because it was also not necessary to put a lot of these people out of their homes,” Ricky Garcia, a resident of Running Springs, said. “And all of these wonderful fire department, also the sheriffs and the police, in danger. For what?”

Firefighters believe the cool down in temperatures will be in their favor as they battle to put out the fire. 

For a full list of evacuation orders, warnings, road closures and shelter information visit the Cal Fire website.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

Cynthia Fleury, who lives on Swallow Hill Road parallel to the Angeles Crest Highway, said her house was covered with red ashes Tuesday night as flames were getting dangerously close to home.

But as her family had to leave so quickly, they left behind their pony, Willow.

“We got back up (Wednesday) morning. We wanted to check on the pony to see if she was safe, to see if she was OK,” Fleury said. “I almost cried when I saw our house was OK, and our neighbors’ house was OK.”

California Wildfires Sep 10

Map: See where fires are burning in Southern California

Wildfires Sep 11

Bridge Fire in Angeles National Forest expands to San Bernardino County, reaching Mt. High resort

Fleury’s home was still under a mandatory evacuation order, but she decided not to leave again while monitoring hot spots with her hose and preventing any flare-ups.

“We’re blessed,” Willow’s owner said. “But this was all foliage. We couldn’t see the highway, (because of) how lush it was, and it’s gone. It’s desolate now.”

A Norco man was held without bail in San Bernardino County on suspicion of sparking the Line Fire, which scorched more than 36,000 acres.

The fire, which was reported at around 6:30 p.m. last Thursday near Base Line Road and Aplin Street in Highland, was 14% contained as of Wednesday.

About 73,000 structures were threatened by the fire, which affected 100,000 people in the area, according to officials. 

No loss of life was reported.

Arson suspect arrested

As soon as the vegetation fire was first reported, Cal Fire officials with the San Bernardino unit began an investigation, reviewing surveillance video and automatic license plate readers.

When investigators conducted a search warrant at the home of Justin Wayne Halstenberg, 34, in the 1000 block of Detroit Street in Norco, they said they located evidence supporting his arrest in the house as well as the car.

Although Halstenberg’s LinkedIn profile says he is a delivery driver for FedEx, the company said the man wasn’t an employee last Thursday when the fire was first reported.

“This individual is no longer providing service on behalf of FedEx, nor was he at the time of this fire,” FedEx said in a statement.

“It’s my belief that as time goes on – and we allow them to do the critical work that they’re doing –  that we will actually find out this suspect may have been responsible for other fires,” San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus said during a news conference Wednesday. 

Looting, burglaries

While firefighters made progress in expanding the containment of the fire as the temperatures dropped slightly Wednesday, authorities also sent a warning message to “opportunists” trying to loot vacated businesses or burglarized homes. 

At least two people were arrested for burglaries, according to the sheriff. 

“I’m drawing a line in the sand. If you’re going to be an opportunist in San Bernardino County, We will catch you. You are going to jail,” Dicus said. “We have a DA that will prosecute you.”

Evacuation orders

• The area east of Orchard Road to Cloverhill Drive from Highland Ave north to the foothills
• All undeveloped land east of Hwy 330 to Summertrail Place and north of Highland Avenue
• Communities of Running Springs and Arrowbear Lake 
• The community of Forrest Falls 
• The community of Mountain Home Village 
• The communities of Angelus Oaks, Seven Oaks and all campgrounds and cabins in the area 
• The areas north and east of Highland Avenue and Palm Avenue
• Green Valley Lake north from Highway 18 along Green Valley Lake Road
• Big Bear from the dam east to Wildrose Lane and the south shoreline south to Bluff Lake Basin

Evacuation warnings

• From Calle Del Rio east to Highway 38 and from Greenspot Road north to the foothills 
• From 210 freeway east to the foothills and from Greenspot road north to the foothills
• The community of Green Valley Lake north from Highway 18 along Green Valley Lake Road 
• The communities of Cedar Glen, Lake Arrowhead, Twin Peaks, Crestline, and Valley of Enchantment 
• The area from Garnet Street east to Bryant Street and Carter Street north to Mill Creek 
• The area of Big Bear Valley from the dam to Cactus Road 
• Garnett Street east to Highway 38 and Mill Creek north to the foothills

Road closures

• Highway 38 is shut down between Bryant Street and Lake Williams.
• Highway 18 is currently closed from Kuffel Canyon to the Big Bear Dam.
• Highway 330 remains closed northbound from Highland Avenue to Highway 18.

Wildfires Sep 11

Bridge Fire in Angeles National Forest expands to San Bernardino County, reaching Mt. High resort

California Wildfires Sep 10

Map: See where fires are burning in Southern California

Evacuation centers

• San Bernardino County Fairgrounds
  Building 6
  14800 7th Street
  Victorville, CA 92395
  
• Jessie Turner Health and Fitness Community Center
  15556 Summit Ave
  Fontana, California 92336
• Temescal Valley High School
  28755 El Toro Road
  Lake Elsinore, CA

Animal shelters

Devore Animal Shelter (Large and Small Animals)
19777 Shelter Way,
San Bernardino, CA 92407
Business Hours: (909) 386-9820
After Hours: (800)472-5609

Three major wildfires continued to tear across multiple Southern California counties Wednesday, collectively scorching more than 100,000 acres with containment still out of reach for firefighters.

This live blog has ended. Follow NBCLA here for updates on the wildfires.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

Gov. Newsom, who visited Southern California Wednesday, issued a state of emergency in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange and Riverside counties as the Bridge and Airport Fires grew. Newsom had proclaimed a state of emergency for San Bernardino County for the Line Fire on Monday.

After a string of days with temperatures over 100-degree in many areas, temperatures cooled by mid-week, aiding firefighters.

Here are the active wildfires by county.

Los Angeles County

The Bridge Fire in the Angeles National Forest near Glendora burned over 50,000 acres at 9% containment.

As of Sunday night, the fire has burned 54,658 acres and is affecting both Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties.

The fire is now the largest active fire burning in California, according to LA County Sheriff Robert Luna.

Since the wildfire was first reported Sunday at around 2 p.m., evacuation orders were issued for nearby neighborhoods, including the Baldy Village area from the dam to Mt. Baldy Resort.

Luckily, Mountain High ski resort was not damaged despite flames were seen surrounding the structures Tuesday night. The popular ski resort says they used their snowmaking system to fight the fires and possibly saved the resort.

Orange County

The Airport Fire in Trabuco Canyon quickly grew to over 23,000 acres since it was first reported Monday.

As of Sunday evening, the fire had burned 23,494 and was 19% contained.

The fire is now also affecting Riverside County, according to Cal Fire and is 5% contained as of Thursday evening.

Several communities were under evacuation orders and warnings as of Tuesday afternoon. 

Luckily, fire officials said they were cautiously optimistic that the dropping temperatures and rising humidity would help firefighters make progress.

Two people were injured while 10 firefighters were treated for minor injuries.

San Bernardino County

Firefighters battling the Line Fire hoped to turn the tide Tuesday as the heat wave was coming to end, accompanied by a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms.

The Line Fire has burned 38,804 acres at 42% containment as of Friday morning. It has threatened 65,600 structures in the area.

A man was arrested on suspicion of starting a fire that spread wildly to the Line Fire.

Riverside County

Firefighters have made great progress in the Tenaja Fire after it burned 130 acres near Lake Elsinore.

The fire was 95% contained Tuesday.

A local emergency was proclaimed in Riverside County so the county could assess more firefighting and repair resources.

San Diego County

Since the Roblar Fire over the weekend, it burned 1,000 acres near Camp Pendleton.

Luckily, fire crews were able to stop the progress as the fire was 85% contained Tuesday.

Kern County

The Borel Fire destroyed 223 structures and damaged 29 others.

Since it was reported on July 24, the fire in the Sequoia National Forest scorched nearly 60,000 acres.  

The wildfire was 95% contained as of Tuesday.

The Train Fire that burned 48 acres in Bealville was 65% contained.

The Airport Fire exploded in size overnight to more than 9,000 acres, forcing evacuations in Orange County Monday.

More than 1,000 firefighters were working overnight to try extinguish the flames in the Trabuco Canyon area.

The fire was reported at around 1:15 p.m. on Trabuco Creek Road near an remote-controlled airplane airport, went from scorching 7 acres to over 2,000 acres within a few hours. By 9:30 p.m. Monday, the blaze grew to burn more than 5,400 acres with 0% containment.

By Tuesday morning, the fire had scorched 9,333 acres with 0% containment.

Officials said a family of three — a husband, wife and their 3-year-old child, were rescued while hiking on Joplin trail.

Separately, a man and a cat were resting at a shelter after being rescued from the trail as well.

The rescued people were flown out of the fire zone with aircraft flown by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, officials said.

The latest fire was moving toward the site of the Holy Fire, which burned more than 23,000 acres in 2018, officials said.

Evacuation orders, warnings

In addition to the mandatory evacuation order issued for those in Robinson Ranch and Trabuco Highlands, officials said those under evacuation warnings should be prepared to leave their homes.

“Don’t wait for a mandatory evacuation order. If you are under an involuntary evacuation order, please know those are not issued lightly. That is the time to get going,” Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner said during a news conference with fire officials.

The map of the neighborhoods under evacuation orders and warnings can be found here.

Road closures

The following roads were closed to the public as fire crews battled the flames.

• Santiago Canyon Road and Live Oak Canyon Road
• Plano Trabuco and Joshua Drive
• Plano Trabuco and Robinson Ranch
• Antonio and Alas de Paz
• Trabuco Canyon and Trabuco Creek
• Santa Margarita and Antonio
• Avenida Empresa and Santa Margarita Parkway

Real-time map updates on road closures can be found here.

Shelters

A temporary shelter is set up at the Lake Forest Sports Park located at 28000 Vista Terrace in Lake Forest, available to provide assistance until 10 p.m. Monday.

A long-term care shelter was established at the Bell Tower Regional Community Center at 22232 El Paseo, Rancho Santa Margarita.

San Bernardino County Sep 8

School closures, more evacuation orders as Line Fire grows to 23,000 acres

Wildfires Sep 9

Bridge Fire burns over 3,000 acres in Angeles National Forest near Glendora

Animals

A large animal shelter was established at 88 Fair Drive in the city of Costa Mesa.

Mission Viejo Animal Services set up a meet-and-reunite area inside the Ralphs parking lot at Santa Margarita Parkway to help people with pets.

OC Animal Care, located at 1630 Victory Road in the city of Tustin, is also able to shelter other pets. 

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The Airport Fire that broke out in Trabuco Canyon in Orange County grew to burn about 2,000 acres Monday afternoon, prompting evacuation orders for those who live in the area.

The mandatory evacuation order affects those in Robinson Ranch and Trabuco Highlands communities.

Due to “a potential threat to life and/or property,” evacuation warnings were also issued in Robinson Ranch, Rose Canyon Road, Trabuco Creek Road, Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Oaks Drive, Joplin Loop and Cook’s Corner.

More detailed evacuation information can be found here.

Firefighters responded to the brush fire after it was first reported at around 1:15 p.m. on Trabuco Creek Road near an remote-controlled airplane airport, according to the OC Fire Authority. 

More than 40 units of firefighters attacked the fire from ground and air, the OC Fire Authority said.

Engine strike teams, hand crews, dozers, helicopters and fixed wing aircraft were deployed to put out the flames.

Wildfires Sep 9

Southern California facing bad air quality, more fire danger

San Bernardino County Sep 8

State of emergency declared for 20,000-acre Line Fire

Drivers were urged to avoid the area so firefighters can respond and work safely.

Fire crews Monday continued to battle the Bridge Fire in the Angeles National Forest as wildfire grew to burn at least 1,255 acres.

The Bridge Fire, which prompted road closures and evacuations, started at 2:12 p.m. Sunday near Camp Bonita Road, East of Camp Williams, according to Cal Fire.

The fire was at 0% containment as of Monday morning.

“Overnight, the fire behavior was extremely active, moving south to Glendora Mountain Road,” Forest Service officials said, adding that firefighters Monday would focus heavily on structural protection of the communities in the East Fork and preventing further fire spread to the south.

The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department issued evacuation orders for the East Fork communities of Camp Williams and River Community.

Road closures are in effect for Highway 39, East Fork Road, Glendora Mountain Road and Glendora Ridge Road.

Authorities said seven fire crews with 21 engines and two dozers, along with four helicopters and four fixed-wing aircraft were deployed for the Bridge Fire response.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

Wildfires 11 hours ago

Maps: See updates on the 3 largest Southern California wildfires

California Wildfires Sep 17

Map: See air quality conditions during Southern California's wildfires

Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The Line Fire, which started in the east portion of the city of Highland in San Bernardino County Thursday afternoon, grew to 17,459 acres Sunday, according to Cal Fire.

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Evacuation orders

• Areas from Calle Del Rio to Highway 38, including Greenspot Road north
• All undeveloped land east of Highway 330 to Summertrail Place and north of Highland Avenue
• The areas of Running Spring east of Highway 330 and south of Highway 18 
• The communities of Running Springs and Arrowbear Lake 
• The area east of Orchard Road to Cloverhill from Highland Avenue north to the foothills

Evacuation warnings

• Neighborhoods east of Church St, north of Highland Ave.
• Neighborhoods east of Weaver, north of Greenspot to the Iron Bridge.

Resources for pets

Residents who need to evacuate can take their pets and livestock to the Devore Animal Shelter, which is located at 19777 Shelter Way in Devore.

Anyone dropping off their animal companions should make sure they have identification such as a collar or tags and any necessary medication.

More than 500 firefighters from different agencies were battling the wildfires despite the triple-digit temperatures. 

The fire crews in Highland said they typically carry 50 to 70 lbs. of equipment during their 24-hour shift, often having to walk uphill to get to the best spot to put out the flames.

LineFire
Animal Care Resources!https://t.co/5dTnPLK08u pic.twitter.com/LVyVgMwIs3

— San Bernardino County Sheriff (@sbcountysheriff) September 7, 2024

“It’s hot right now. It’s 110 degrees, so it taxes everyone,” said Justin Veloz, a firefighter with the Rialto Fire Department. “But once you start working, you forget about it. You take breaks every hour and go slow and steady.”

Air tankers worked in constant rotation from above while ground crews tried to get the upper hand on containment.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

As of 9 a.m. Thursday, the Post Fire burned at least 130 acres with 40% containment, according to Cal Fire officials. 

Officials said evacuations were ordered as a wind shift. As of 11 p.m. Wednesday, all evacuation orders and warnings were lifted.

The vegetation fire was reported around 2:20 p.m. near Soboba and Gilman Spring roads in San Jacinto. The fire was determined to be human-caused, according to CAL FIRE Peace Officers.

It was not immediately clear whether the fire was intentionally set.

As of 7:30 p.m. Sunday, the uphill burning fire was at 0% containment and evacuation warnings were maintained.

Six firefighters were transported to hospitals with minor injuries, the department stated.

#recordfire [UPDATE] 8:27 p.m. The fire is holding at 650 acres and is 0% contained. CAL FIRE Peace Officers have determined that the fire was human caused. The investigation is ongoing and evacuation warnings remain in place.

— CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department (@CALFIRERRU) September 2, 2024

An evacuation warning was issued for these zones: RVC Poppet Flats 1, 2, 3 and 4. North of Wolf Road, West of Partridge Street and Hungry Hollow Road, South of Old Idyllwild Road and East of Gubner.

The brush fire is one of more than 5,600 wildfires that have burned more than 834,000 acres so far this year in California, according to Cal Fire. At this time last year, the state firefighting agency reported 4,725 fires that burned 220,123 acres.

The five-year average during that period is 5,535 fires and more than 684,900 acres.

The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

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Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The Tenaja Fire started Sunday just before noon and quickly grew to 100 acres along the Tenaja Truck Trail. By Monday morning, the fire was at 130 acres with containment at 25 percent.

The fire’s forward rate of spread was under control by late Sunday.

El Carissa Village was under an evacuation warning. Ortega Highway was temporarily closed in both directions, but later reopened.

Lakeside High School at 32593 Riverside Drive in Lake Elsinore was opened to evacuees. The San Jacinto Animal Shelter at 581 S. Grand Ave. was taking in larger animals.

Details about how the fire started were not immediately available.

Firefighters responded just before 11 a.m. to a report of a fire burning next to an overturned big rig and construction excavator near Pyramid Lake. The truck driver suffered minor injuries.

The Moto Fire spread to brush on the side of the freeway and spread to about 20 acres. At least one water-dropping helicopter responded to the scene.

Several northbound lanes on the 5 Freeway south of Vista del Lago were closed. Traffic was backed up for miles by midday.

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“Crews are making progress with hoselays on the perimeter of the fire,” Angeles National Forest said in a post on X. “Challenges are heavy brush, short range spot fire and terrain.”

Details about the cause of the fire were not immediately available.

#MotorFire Impressive drops from firefighting aircraft!

Crews are making progress with hoselays on the perimeter of the fire.
Challenges are heavy brush, short range spot fire and terrain. pic.twitter.com/6cHm7h5qB0

— Angeles National Forest (@Angeles_NF) August 23, 2024

After an evacuation order was lifted for people who live in the area, some returned to their homes Tuesday, finding their properties damaged and charred by the fast-moving fire.

The Hernandez family are many of the wildfire survivors trying to grip with their new reality.

“There is nothing left,” Justine Hernandez said. “We left to work, said bye to our dogs, came back, and it’s like a bomb went off.”

The Hernandez family, who bought their home during the pandemic, said they are distraught over the loss of the property as well as their beloved family members.

“My most heartbreaking part of this, it’s our dogs. That’s the hardest part,” Erika Hernandez said.

Firefighters Tuesday tried to put out hot spots along Vista Drive where five single-family homes were destroyed as well as one outbuilding, according to fire officials.

Another family on Vista Drive lost their home along with several dogs, a turtle and turkeys, as their neighbors hopelessly watched the flames engulf the property. 

“My heart breaks for our neighbors with kids. I am lucky but it’s not a good feeling,” the neighbor said.

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The centers will provide assistance to residents and businesses affected by the two fires that started in early September and continue to burn. Information will be available from local and state agencies, and nonprofit organizations about services and recovery assistance.

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Each center will have information about processing insurance claims, property cleanup, replacing vital records, navigating the repair and rebuilding process, and other resources.

Here are the locations and hours.

LA County Fairplex
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20
Location: 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Expo Hall 8, Pomona (Enter at Gate 3)

California State University, San Bernardino
When: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23
Location: 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino

Los Angeles County also offers recovery assistance information here. San Bernardino County recovery assistance information can be found here.

The Bridge and Line fires were two of three major wildfires that broke out in early September during a week of extreme heat.

The Bridge Fire started Sept. 8 and grew to more than 54,700 acres. Containment on Wednesday was at 37 percent. The Line Fire was at 39,100 acres with containment at 50 percent.

The blaze was reported sometime before 2 p.m. along the 215 Freeway between Los Alamos Road and Clinton Keith, according to the Murrieta Police Department. As a result, the northbound lanes of the freeway in the area have been shut down for the emergency response.

Residents on the east side of the northbound 215 Freeway from Los Alamos Road to Snowfield and Tree Ridge Streets have been ordered to leave their homes.

Saturday’s fire comes as Southern California experiences increased temperatures due to a high-pressure system.

It is unclear what caused the fire. No injuries or structural damages have been reported in connection with the blaze.

The evacuation order was lifted just after 4 p.m. once the flame was put out by fire crews.

The non-injury Alamos Fire was reported at 3:22 p.m. on the north side of Los Alamos Hills Sports Park, near the intersection of Los Alamos Road and Ruth Ellen Way, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

The agency said multiple engine and hand crews from the county and Murrieta Fire and Rescue were sent to the location and encountered flames burning up and over the hills fronting the park.

The flames were moving at a dangerous rate of spread toward Whitewood Road and the backside of Vista Murrieta High School which was not in session Friday, officials said.

Sheriff’s deputies and Murrieta police officers began shutting down Whitewood at 3:55 p.m. for public safety. Four Cal Fire air tankers and a water-dropping helicopter initiated runs on the brusher at 3:45 p.m.

The head of the fire was pointed toward a construction area, which was surrounded by open space, and officials at the scene anticipated the flames might lose momentum within the construction zone.

#alamosfire FIRE UPDATE:

72 Acres moving northeast
Structures threatened
Care and Reception and Murrieta Community Center

Evac information: https://t.co/MPL4mypWTy

— City of Murrieta (@CityOfMurrieta) August 2, 2024

Evacuation warnings were expected. There was no immediate word regarding how the fire might have started.

The Pole Fire near Apple Valley started Tuesday evening near Roundup Way and Central Road. Containment was at 30 percent with flames spreading at a moderate rate.

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All evacuation orders were lifted Wednesday morning, according to the Apple Valley Fire Protection District.

“Crews will be working in the area over the next few days mopping up,” the District said on Facebook. “Smoke may be visible throughout the area.”

Details about a cause were not immediately available.

The state’s largest wildfire, the arson-related Park Fire in four Northern California counties, was at 389,700 acres Wednesday with containment at 18 percent. The fire started July 24 when a burning car was pushed into a brush-filled gully and is now the fifth-largest wildfire on record in California.

So far this year, the acreage burned by wildfires in California has far surpassed last year’s figure. More than 763,400 acres have burned statewide in since the start of 2024, according to Cal Fire. At this time last year, that number was at 25,900 acres. The five-year average for that period is 166,200 acres.

Below, see updates on the largest wildfires in Southern California.

Lake Fire, Santa Barbara County

The largest fire in Southern California is 92-percent contained. The 38,600-acre Lake Fire started July 5 near Zaca Lake. Closures in Los Padres National Forest remain in effect, but evacuations were lifted July 23. Details about a cause were not immediately available.

Nixon Fire, Riverside County

At nearly 5,000 acres, the Nixon Fire in southern Riverside County was just 5-percent contained early Wednesday, but authorities said there was no immediate threat to homes or other buildings. The fire started Monday around midday in the area of Richard Nixon Boulevard and Tule Peak Road.

Several structures were damaged Monday afternoon, but it was still unclear whether those were sheds and outbuildings or residences. An evacuation order was in effect for areas south of Highway 371, north of the county line, west of Terwilliger Road and east of Foolish Pleasure Road.

The cause of the fire was under investigation.

Vista Fire, San Bernardino County

Containment of the Vista Fire was at 95 percent early Wednesday. The fire near Lytle Creek started July 7 and grew to nearly 3,000 acres.

Apache Fire, Ventura County

The 1,500-acre Apache Fire in Cuyama Valley was 80-percent contained Wednesday morning. The fire started July 23 near Maricopa Highway and Apache Canyon Road.

The Park Fire started nearly a week ago near Chico in Butte County, about 100 miles north of Sacramento. The fire burned tens of thousands of acres in just a matter of hours as it raced into neighboring Tehama, Shasta and Plumas counties.

It expanded to 383,619 acres by Tuesday.

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At roughly 600 square miles, the estimated acreage is larger than the land area of the city of Los Angeles (470 square miles).

The Park Fire’s size is surpassed only by the September 202 Creek Fire (379,895 acres) in Fresno and Madera counties; the August 2020 SCU Lightning Complex (396,625 acres) in Stanislaus, Santa Clara, Alameda, Contra Costa and San Joaquin counties; the July 2018 Mendocino Complex (459,123 acres) in Colusa, Lake, Mendocino and Glenn counties; the July 2021 Dixie Fire (963,309 acres) in Butte, Plumas, Lassen, Shasta and Tehama counties; and the August Complex (1,032,648 acres), a group of fires in Mendocino, Humboldt, Trinity, Tehama, Glenn, Lake and Colusa counties that became California’s largest wildfire on record in August 2020.

The Park Fire is near the site of the most destructive and deadliest wildfire in state history, the November 2018 Camp Fire (153,336 acres) that devastated the town of Paradise.

The #ParkFire has now escalated to become the fifth-largest wildfire in California's history, severely impacting Butte, Tehama, Shasta, and Plumas counties. This development underscores the critical importance of being #ReadyforWildfire. One of the most effective ways to ensure… pic.twitter.com/Esh3drISfg

— CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) July 30, 2024

It is one of more than 100 wildfires burning this week in California. Ninety-five percent of the state’s wildfires are caused by human activity, according to Cal Fire.

The largest wildfire this year in the state is one of several this summer behind a dramatic increase in the number of acres burned. So far in 2024, Cal Fire reported 4,613 fires statewide that have burned a staggering 751,327 acres.

Last year at this time, the state firefighting agency reported 3,746 fires that burned just 25,763 acres. The fire-year average for that period is 4,416 fires and 140,996 acres.

A man accused of setting the fire was arrested Thursday in connection with the Park Fire.

Containment Tuesday was at 14 percent.