Current News on the Bridge Fire in Angeles National Forest
The Bridge Fire, a significant wildfire currently raging in the Angeles National Forest, has become a major concern for local authorities and residents. As of September 9, 2024, the fire has rapidly expanded, prompting evacuations and road closures in the affected areas. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the situation based on the latest reports.
Fire Overview
The Bridge Fire was first reported on September 8, 2024, around 2:40 PM in the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, specifically near the Cattle Canyon Bridge along Camp Bonita Road. Firefighters from the Angeles National Forest responded promptly to the incident. As of the latest updates, the fire has grown to an estimated 800 acres in size, with firefighting efforts ongoing.
Current Situation
- Evacuations: Visitors in the Angeles National Forest have been evacuated as a precautionary measure. The fire's proximity to populated areas has raised alarms, leading to swift action from local authorities.
- Firefighting Efforts: Fire crews are actively battling the blaze, utilizing both ground and aerial resources to contain the fire. The situation remains dynamic, with updates being provided regularly by firefighting agencies.
- Air Quality Concerns: The fire, along with another significant blaze known as the Line Fire, which has burned over 17,000 acres in the Big Bear Lake area, has resulted in deteriorating air quality across the Inland Empire region.
Key Developments
Rapid Growth: The fire has escalated quickly, with reports indicating it reached 200 acres within hours of its ignition. By the evening of September 8, it had swelled to 800 acres.
Road Closures: Authorities have implemented road closures in the vicinity of the fire to ensure public safety and facilitate firefighting operations. Key routes affected include East Fork Road and Glendora Mountain Road.
State of Emergency: A state of emergency has been declared in San Bernardino County due to the ongoing threat posed by the Line Fire, which is also impacting firefighting resources and air quality in the region.
Health Advisory: Residents in the surrounding areas are advised to stay indoors and limit outdoor activities due to the unhealthy air quality caused by smoke from both the Bridge Fire and the Line Fire.
Media Coverage and Updates
Several news outlets have been covering the developments surrounding the Bridge Fire:
- Los Angeles Times reported on the evacuation of visitors and the rapid growth of the fire, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
- CBS News provided updates on the firefighting efforts and the impact of the fire on local communities.
- NBC Los Angeles highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by firefighters as they work to contain the blaze amidst difficult conditions.
Recent Articles
- Bridge fire in L.A. County grows to 200 acres; visitors are evacuated - Los Angeles Times
- Bridge Fire burning in Angeles National Forest prompts evacuations and road closures - CBS News
- Bridge Fire swells to 800 acres in Angeles National Forest - Yahoo News
The Bridge Fire in the Angeles National Forest is a developing situation that poses significant risks to both the environment and local communities. With the fire now covering 800 acres and ongoing firefighting efforts, authorities are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders. As the situation evolves, updates will continue to be provided by local news outlets and firefighting agencies.
For more information and real-time updates, you can visit the InciWeb page dedicated to the Bridge Fire.
