Three separate wildfires have erupted around Los Angeles, fueled by a punishing heat wave and fanned by gusting winds. The fast-moving Airport Fire in Orange County, the Line Fire in San Bernardino County, and the smaller Bridge Fire north of Los Angeles have collectively consumed thousands of acres, forcing evacuations and threatening tens of thousands of homes and businesses.
The Airport Fire, which started accidentally on Monday afternoon when workers operating heavy equipment sparked a blaze near Trabuco Canyon, has consumed over 9,000 acres. The fire is spewing thick smoke into the air, prompting school closures.
Crews have been working to protect Santiago Peak, home to critical broadcast towers, but had to withdraw due to intense flames. Airplanes are dumping retardant and helicopters are dropping water on the hillsides above neighborhoods.
To the northeast of Los Angeles, the Line Fire has now burned nearly 28,000 acres in San Bernardino County. Resort communities around Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear are being evacuated, and major access roads are blocked. Firefighters are battling the blaze from the air while ground crews seek to establish containment lines.
However, gusting winds and hot, dry weather are making conditions challenging. Cal Fire warns that stronger winds on Tuesday night could lead to greater fire spread.
The smaller Bridge Fire, which began on Sunday, has destroyed more than 4,000 acres north of Los Angeles. The persistent heat wave, with temperatures reaching up to 110°F (43°C), along with gusting winds, is creating potential for large vertical plume growth and visible smoke columns.
Thousands of firefighters, supported by the US National Guard, are battling to slow the spread of the wildfires. While there have been no reports of deaths or serious injuries, the situation remains critical. Forecasters predict that Tuesday will likely be the last day of extreme temperatures in the region, with a rapid cooldown expected from Thursday.
After two relatively mild fire years, 2024 is shaping up to be a significant year for wildfires in California and other parts of the US West. Two very wet winters generated abundant vegetation growth, which has now dried out after a long, hot summer, leaving behind ample fuel for the fires.