HIGHLAND, Calif. — The Line Fire, which ignited several days ago in the Highland area of San Bernardino County, continued to blaze through rugged mountain terrain on Monday, expanding to 20,553 acres amid intense heat.
The fire started Thursday evening and rapidly spread over the weekend, prompting evacuations and road closures in the affected areas.
As of Monday, no homes have been reported destroyed, but more than 36,000 structures, including homes, commercial buildings, and minor structures, remain under threat.
Cal Fire reported that containment had reached 3%, as firefighters battled hot, dry conditions and difficult terrain.
Officials warned that thunderstorms expected throughout the day could worsen conditions for firefighters on the ground.
“The most recent challenge has been the thunderstorms, and we’re keeping a close watch on them,” said Brent Pascua of Cal Fire. “We’ve positioned our firefighters in various directions so we can respond quickly if the fire shifts, as it did yesterday.”
At least three firefighters have been injured, though their conditions have not been disclosed.
Over the weekend, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in San Bernardino County and announced the allocation of federal grant money to support firefighting efforts. The emergency declaration allows for the suspension of certain regulations, enabling faster access to unemployment benefits and the replacement of lost records such as marriage and birth certificates. It also relaxes regulations for hospitals and child care facilities.
Additionally, the state secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant from FEMA, which reimburses local agencies for up to 75% of firefighting costs.
The fire has created its own weather system, with pyrocumulus clouds—also known as fire clouds—forming overhead. According to the National Weather Service, approximately 3,700 lightning strikes were recorded in the clouds on Saturday, with over 270 ground strikes that had the potential to spark new fires.
Thunderstorms have also contributed to erratic fire behavior by creating downdrafts that push the flames in unpredictable directions, said Chris Prater of the San Bernardino County Fire Department.
“Firefighters are facing a grueling battle,” Prater explained. “They’re working in temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, navigating steep terrain, and contending with evolving weather conditions brought on by thunderstorms.”
Evacuation orders and warnings remained in effect on Monday, along with multiple road closures.
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Avian Law Group has assisted thousands of families affected by California wildfires. If you or a loved one has been impacted by the Line Fire, contact us for support. We’re here to help you recover damages and ensure your safety.