Rapidly advancing wildfires pose a significant threat in the vicinity of Los Angeles.
In the surroundings of Los Angeles, a wildfire has been spreading rapidly, causing considerable damage. As reported by authorities in California on Wednesday, the "Bridge Fire," initiated on Sunday in the mountains north of Los Angeles, has wiped out numerous homes in Wrightwood and Mount Baldy, along with a ski resort. At least 33 houses and several vacation properties have been reduced to ashes. Mandatory evacuations have been enforced.
Local resident Jenny Alaniz shared her ordeal with KTLA, stating, "We reside in the canyon. The fire approached us and we couldn't salvage anything. All I managed was to save the dogs. Our house will burn down." In Wrightwood, charred remnants of houses and vehicles were visible.
The blaze broke out in the Angeles National Forest north of Los Angeles on Sunday afternoon and had encompassed an area of 1600 hectares by Tuesday. By Wednesday afternoon, it had incinerated a staggering 49,000 hectares. The flames devoured thick vegetation and spread to the Wrightwood community in San Bernardino County and the Mountain High ski resort.
The ski resort appears to have sustained minimal damage, with officials reporting that "all major lifts and buildings have survived with minimal or no damage."
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna revealed that in a secluded area near Mount Baldy, three individuals, including one of his deputies, have been trapped by the flames. The rescue operation is proving challenging due to the dense smoke and obstructed roads.
The Airport Fire continues to spread southeast of Los Angeles. Firefighters have reported that the fire has now consumed over 8900 hectares of land and caused damage to some properties. Seven individuals have sustained injuries.
The blaze started on Monday and has been relentlessly marching through canyons and mountains, including Santiago Peak, where numerous communication towers stand. The towers have somehow managed to remain relatively unscathed. Several mountain vacation spots have been ordered to evacuate and access roads have been shut down.
The San Bernardino County Police have apprehended a suspect in connection with arson. The fires have been exacerbated by a prolonged heatwave and the resulting drought in southern California. On Wednesday, the heatwave began to subside.
Firefighting crews have been working tirelessly to contain the wildfire, utilizing their skills and equipment to combat the spreading flames. Despite their efforts, the relentless heat and dry conditions have made the task extremely challenging.
Given the magnitude of the fire and the dangerous conditions, additional firefighting resources have been called in to assist local teams, strengthening the response effort.
