Mountain High Resort Under Threat from Wildfires: Current Updates
As of September 2024, the Mountain High Resort in Wrightwood, California, is facing significant threats due to the Bridge Fire, which has rapidly expanded and is now engulfing over 40,000 acres of land. This wildfire has raised alarms not only for the resort but also for surrounding communities, prompting mandatory evacuations and emergency responses from local fire departments.
Overview of the Situation
The Bridge Fire ignited on September 8, 2024, and has since escalated dramatically, impacting the Mountain High Ski Resort. Reports indicate that the fire reached the resort on the evening of September 10, with flames visible on the resort's webcams, showcasing the intensity of the blaze as it threatened various infrastructure, including ski lifts.
Key Developments:
Fire Activity: The fire has shown extreme activity, with flames surrounding both fixed grip and detachable lift terminals at the resort. The resort's webcams captured alarming footage of the fire's progression, leading to widespread concern among residents and visitors alike.
Evacuations: Authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for areas in and around Big Bear Lake and Wrightwood. The urgency of these evacuations reflects the fire's rapid spread and the potential danger to life and property.
Firefighting Efforts: Fire crews from San Bernardino County and other agencies are actively engaged in combating the blaze. However, the challenging terrain and dry conditions have made firefighting efforts difficult.
Community Impact: The fire has not only threatened the resort but also the homes and livelihoods of residents in the surrounding mountain communities. Reports indicate that several homes have already been lost to the flames, creating a "hellish" scene as described by local news outlets.
Recent News Articles
Several news outlets have reported on the ongoing situation, providing updates and insights into the fire's impact on the Mountain High Resort:
Powder Magazine reported on the Bridge Fire engulfing the resort, highlighting the dramatic visuals captured by webcams and the immediate threat to the ski infrastructure. Read more here.
Victorville Daily Press provided live updates on the fire, noting that the resort was threatened as of September 10. The article emphasizes the urgency of the situation and the ongoing firefighting efforts. Read more here.
Lift Blog detailed the extent of the fire's reach into the resort, indicating that multiple lifts have sustained damage. The report underscores the potential long-term impact on the resort's operations. Read more here.
MSN reported on the broader implications of the fire, noting that mountain communities are under siege as the Bridge Fire continues to expand. Read more here.
The Weather Channel described the scene as "hellish," emphasizing the urgency of the situation as residents are forced to flee their homes. Read more here.
Looking Ahead
As the situation develops, the focus remains on fire containment and ensuring the safety of residents and visitors in the affected areas. The Mountain High Resort, a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, faces an uncertain future as it grapples with the immediate threat of wildfires and the potential for long-term damage to its facilities.
Community Support and Resources
In light of the ongoing crisis, local authorities and organizations are mobilizing resources to support affected residents. Community members are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and to follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety.
The Bridge Fire serves as a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires in California, particularly in vulnerable areas like Wrightwood. As firefighting efforts continue, the resilience of the community and the future of the Mountain High Resort hang in the balance. For those interested in following the latest updates, numerous news sources are providing real-time coverage of the situation.
