Firefighters make progress against wildfires near Los Angeles
- Three major wildfires near Los Angeles have burned over 117,000 acres and caused significant damage.
- The Bridge Fire, the largest, is 37% contained, while the Line Fire is 50% contained, both fueled by dry vegetation.
- Firefighters are making progress, but the situation remains critical, necessitating ongoing efforts and resources.
Firefighters are making significant progress against three major wildfires near Los Angeles, which have collectively burned over 117,000 acres and caused substantial damage. The Bridge Fire, the largest of the three, has consumed 54,795 acres since it ignited on September 8 in the Angeles National Forest. As of Wednesday, it is 37% contained, with firefighters focusing on strengthening containment lines. The fire has destroyed 75 structures, including homes in Wrightwood and Mt., and has resulted in 23 injuries, including firefighters. The Line Fire, which started on September 5 due to suspected arson, has burned 39,181 acres and is now 50% contained. This fire has caused damage to four structures and injured four individuals, including three firefighters. The dry vegetation in the area has exacerbated the fire's spread, prompting California Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency and deploy the National Guard to assist in firefighting efforts. The Airport Fire, which began on September 9 in Orange County, has burned 23,519 acres and injured at least 15 people. This fire was sparked by public works crews attempting to prevent access to a dry vegetation area. Firefighters are prioritizing the construction and reinforcement of fire lines to contain this blaze. Overall, more than 24,000 firefighters are currently engaged in battling 55 large active wildfires across the nation, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by extreme fire conditions and the need for effective resource management in wildfire response efforts.