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Wildfires force evacuations as Los Angeles encircled by flames

Thousands evacuated as wildfires spread around Los Angeles

Wildfires encircling Los Angeles have continued to expand, compelling families to evacuate and filling the sky with dense smoke. Three distinct fires have ignited around the United States’ second-largest city, driven by intense heat and strong winds.

Thousands of firefighters, assisted by the US National Guard, are striving to contain the fires raging through the parched landscape. While no fatalities or serious injuries have been reported, tens of thousands of homes and businesses are at risk from the approaching flames.

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The Airport Fire in Orange County, which started accidentally on Monday afternoon due to heavy equipment operation, has burned over 9,000 acres. Situated southwest of Los Angeles, the fire has forced nearby schools to close due to the heavy smoke.

Orange County Fire Authority Captain Steve Concialdi noted that the wildfires are advancing towards Santiago Peak, which houses essential broadcast towers for local media and government agencies. Due to the intense flames, crews had to retreat from the area despite efforts to protect the peak.

Water is dropped on the Airport Fire by helicopter Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, in El Cariso, an unincorporated community in Riverside County, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer).
Image Courtesy of Associated Press.

Aircraft have been dropping fire retardant on the hillsides above affluent neighbourhoods, while helicopters are dousing the flames with water.

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In San Bernardino County, northeast of Los Angeles, the Line Fire has consumed nearly 28,000 acres. Authorities have ordered evacuations for resort communities around Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear, and several major roads have been closed.

A firefighter battles the advancing Airport Fire, Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024, in unincorporated Riverside County, Calif. (AP Photo/Etienne Laurent).
Image Courtesy of Associated Press.

Firefighters are using aerial support while ground crews attempt to establish containment lines to halt the wildfire’s spread. However, the hot, dry weather coupled with gusting winds is complicating their efforts.

Cal Fire, overseeing the firefighting operations, warned that the north and east sides of the fire are expanding rapidly, with difficult conditions expected throughout the day. They predict stronger winds Tuesday night, which could reduce humidity and accelerate the fire’s spread.

Ken Motonishi walks his dogs as the Airport Fire burns near Porter Ranch in Trabuco Canyon, Calif., on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2024. (Paul Bersebach/The Orange County Register via AP).
Image Courtesy of Associated Press.

The smaller Bridge Fire, located north of Los Angeles, began on Sunday and has destroyed over 4,000 acres by Tuesday afternoon. The ongoing heatwave, gripping southern California for a week, is exacerbating the situation.

Officials reported that temperatures reaching up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit along with gusty winds are creating conditions conducive to large fire growth and visible smoke plumes. Forecasters anticipate a significant cooldown starting Thursday, likely ending the extreme temperatures.

Wildfires are a regular occurrence in California and the US West during this season. Following two relatively mild fire years, 2024 is proving to be severe. Two wet winters led to substantial vegetation growth, which has dried out after a long, hot summer, providing ample fuel for the fires.

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What Other Media Are Saying
  • Star Local Media reports that three wildfires around Los Angeles, fueled by a heat wave and gusting winds, have blanketed the city in smoke. (read more)
  • Citizen Tribune reports that three separate wildfires around Los Angeles, fueled by heatwaves and gusting winds, have forced families to evacuate and blanketed the city in choking smoke. (read more)
  • Northwest Georgia News reports that wildfires around Los Angeles have blanketed the city in smoke, causing significant air pollution and health risks, especially for vulnerable populations, with steps being taken to manage the situation. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions asked about this news

Why are there wildfires around Los Angeles?

The wildfires are fueled by a heat wave, gusting winds, and tinder-dry brush.

How many fires are currently burning near Los Angeles?

There are three separate wildfires currently burning near Los Angeles.

What is causing the Airport Fire in Orange County?

The Airport Fire was accidentally started by workers operating heavy equipment.

Are there any evacuation orders due to the wildfires?

Yes, families are being evacuated, especially around Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear.

What is the weather forecast for the wildfire-affected areas?

The heat wave is expected to end by Thursday, with a rapid cooldown predicted.

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Sam Nislan

Sam was a successful freelance journalist who worked with international news organizations before joining Thaiger. With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism from London, his global perspective on news and current affairs is influenced by his days in London.

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