A wildfire, named the Line Fire, has scorched 11 square miles of grass and chaparral in the foothills of the San Bernardino National Forest, 65 miles east of Los Angeles. The fire, which started on Thursday evening, has expanded due to the hot temperatures from a days-long heat wave pushing temperatures into the triple digits. Evacuations were increased as the fire continues to burn uncontrolled along the forest’s edge.
About 500 firefighters, along with water-dropping helicopters and aircraft, are battling the blaze. The fire has the potential for significant growth in the next 12 hours. Dense smoke clouds and leaping flames could be seen from the area. Despite this, no injuries have been reported, and no structures have been damaged or destroyed as of now.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. The extreme heat in the region, with downtown Los Angeles reaching 112 degrees Fahrenheit, has exacerbated the fire conditions. This marked only the third time since 1877 that temperatures in downtown LA have exceeded 112 degrees. Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blaze and protect the residents and homes in the area from the spreading wildfire.
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