Live updates: Air quality for most of SoCal impacted by smoke from 3 wildfires

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Last updated: Thursday, September 12, 2024 10:58PM GMT
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LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Three wildfires burning in three Southern California counties are growing quickly as firefighters work to contain the blazes.

The Line Fire erupted last week and has burned more than 37,000 acres through rough mountain terrain in the Highland area of San Bernardino County. One person has been arrested for allegedly starting the fire.

The Airport Fire in Orange County has grown to over 23,412 acres after since it was accidentally sparked by county public works crews who were trying to move boulders in the area.

The Bridge Fire in the Angeles National Forest has charred more than 51,100 acres since it erupted Sunday. It has destroyed more than 30 homes in Mount Baldy and Wrightwood.

Jory Rand Image
Sep 12, 2024, 7:21 AM GMT

Family's Running Springs home destroyed by Line Fire

At least one home in Running Springs was destroyed by the Line Fire as it continued to grow, scorching more than 36,000 acres in San Bernardino County.

The family was able to evacuate in time.

A GoFundMe page has been started to help the family.

At least one home was destroyed in Running Springs by the Line Fire. The family was able to evacuate on time.

"Really sweet people," said neighbor Travis Debrule, who stayed behind when his own family evacuated. "They have little kids. It's really unfortunate."

The Line Fire is about 18% contained as of Wednesday evening.

Rob Hayes Image
Sep 12, 2024, 1:01 AM GMT

Residents near 210 corridor keep close eye on Bridge Fire

The 210 corridor appeared a bit clearer Wednesday but the Bridge Fire continues to keep residents on high alert.

Officials are telling residents who live near the 210 Freeway and the Mount Baldy area that now is not the time to let your guard down. All throughout the foothill communities, roads to the hotspots have been shut down.

The 210 corridor appeared a bit clearer Wednesday but the Bridge Fire continues to keep residents on high alert.

Emergency officials asking people to stay out of affected areas, and if you live nearby, be prepared to evacuate.

"Don't wait to leave when you're asked to go," said Los Angeles Supervisor Kathryn Barger. "Squandering even a few minutes may be the difference between life and death."

In Glendora, large fires have ravaged the surrounding hillsides in the past and wisps of smoke peeking over the ridges are enough to boost the anxieties of the people who live right up against the San Gabriel Mountains.

"It was really scary," said Glendora resident Lois Sparling. "This huge cloud coming over that ridge there... it's quite a bit away from here, but my heart goes out to those people because I know exactly how they feel."

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Sep 11, 2024, 9:20 PM GMT

New evacuation order issued as Bridge Fire burns 76 square miles in Angeles National Forest

A new evacuation order was issued Wednesday afternoon for an area near Wrightwood as the massive Bridge Fire continued to burn unabated in the Angeles National Forest, authorities said.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department announced the order shortly after 1:30 p.m.

"Effective immediately, an evacuation order is now in effect for the following area: The area from Hwy 138 south to Lone Pine Canyon and Hwy 2 east to Lone Pine Canyon Road is now under EVACUATION ORDER," the agency said on X.

"Make sure to gather your pets, important documents, medications, and any essential belongings before you leave. Your safety is the priority! don't delay in evacuating," the social media post said.

The Bridge Fire grew tenfold in a day earlier this week, scorching 76 square miles and burning homes in Wrightwood. The cause of the fire remains unknown. It was 0% contained Wednesday morning.

Sep 11, 2024, 6:45 PM GMT

People trapped near Mt. Baldy due to massive Bridge Fire

Three people are trapped 5 miles west of Mt. Baldy in Los Angeles County due to the Bridge Fire burning in the area.

Three people are trapped 5 miles west of Mt. Baldy in Los Angeles County due to the Bridge Fire burning in the area, L.A. County Sherrif Robert Luna said Wednesday during a news conference.

The people can't access roads and will need to be airlifted out of the remote area. However, Luna said that can't happen until smoke from the wildfire clears.

Luna said the L.A. County Fire Department is trying to get a vehicle to the people in hopes of getting them out.

One of the people trapped is an off-duty L.A. County Sheriff's Department sergeant.

Luna said all three people are currently safe.