As the "Line Fire" continues to ravage the forested regions in San Bernardino County, KTLA reports that the blaze has grown to 505 acres with evacuation warnings in effect for some neighborhoods in Highland. Originally igniting near Baseline and Alpin streets, the fire's behavior shifted, posing a greater threat to residential areas.
Despite the rising temperatures, which reached nearly 115 degrees in the Inland Empire, the containment of the wildfire remains at zero percent. Burning since approximately 6 p.m. on Thursday, the shifting winds have complicated efforts to control the spread, as mentioned in a statement obtained by ABC7. Residents have been warned to prepare for evacuation, particularly those with pets and livestock or those requiring additional time to leave.
Cal Fire has placed evacuation warnings for specific neighborhoods, according to ABC7. These areas include those east of Church Street, north of Highland Avenue, and the neighborhood east of Weaver, reaching north from Greenspot to the Iron Bridge. While no mandatory evacuations have been ordered at this time, the changing fire dynamics mean that the situation could escalate quickly.
Adding to the complications, the South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a smoke advisory reported by CBS News. The "very unhealthy" air quality level indicates that even those without prior health conditions may experience adverse effects due to the smoke. Surrounding areas such as Mentone, Redlands, and Running Springs might also feel the impacts, with winds blowing smoke from the wildfire west toward Highland and San Bernardino.
Whilst no structures have been reported as damaged thus far, the firefighters' efforts are being tested under the fierce conditions of the heatwave. Nearly 250 personnel have been dispatched to the area as the fire expands, as confirmed in a statement obtained by CBS News.
