A fast-moving wildfire dubbed the “Post Fire” has ripped through Southern California, forcing the evacuation of at least 1,200 people and scorching over 16 square miles (41.4 square kilometres) of land. The blaze erupted Saturday afternoon near Interstate 5 in Gorman, roughly 62 miles northwest of Los Angeles, according to California’s Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).
Southern California Wildfire Forces Evacuations
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Authorities with the Los Angeles County Fire Department report the evacuation of 1,200 people from the Hungry Valley recreation area. This precautionary measure came as the flames threatened the popular spot, leading to the closure of both Hungry Valley and Pyramid Lake reservoirs. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. thehotshotwakeup, a Substack/Podcast account on Instagram, posted pictures of the wildfire.
While firefighters managed to prevent damage to homes, two commercial buildings were not as fortunate. Firefighters are battling the blaze on multiple fronts. Crews are constructing fire lines around the perimeter to contain the inferno, while aircraft are deployed to combat the flames despite limited visibility. However, strong winds pose a significant challenge, particularly after nightfall, according to the fire department. As of Sunday morning, only 2% of the fire’s perimeter is contained, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Limited Visibility Due To Smoke
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The blaze erupted around 1:45 pm on Saturday, catching many by surprise. Since then, it has moved southeast towards Pyramid Lake, a popular local landmark. Firefighters are working tirelessly to establish fire lines, creating a barrier to prevent the flames from spreading further. Aircraft, including helicopters and fixed-wing firefighting planes, are also playing a crucial role. Despite their efforts, limited visibility due to smoke makes their job considerably more difficult.
Adding to the public health concerns, the South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a smoke advisory. Residents in areas impacted by the smoke are urged to limit their exposure by staying indoors or finding alternative shelter. This advisory is particularly important for vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory problems.
The fire serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat wildfires pose in California. The state’s dry climate and strong winds create ideal conditions for these blazes to ignite and spread rapidly. With summer approaching and temperatures rising, authorities are urging residents to be fire-aware and prepared. This includes clearing brush around homes, having an evacuation plan in place, and staying informed about current fire danger.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (Representative Image)
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