Major wildfires in Southern California destroy over 200 structures and homes
On Sept. 16, three major fires wreaked havoc in multiple counties as firefighters diligently fought to contain the blazes.
In El Cariso Village, Calif., what remained after the Airport Fire had ravaged the landscape was nothing but scorched earth on that same day. The fire, ongoing since Sept. 9, had already destroyed 160 structures, including homes, with an additional 34 structures damaged, as reported by Cal Fire.
Originating from a Public Works crew accident, the Airport Fire had grown to almost 37 square miles and achieved 31 percent containment by Sept. 16, leaving a path of destruction through Trabuco Canyon, incinerating homes in its wake and leaving behind charred vehicles.
With 12 fire personnel and two residents sustaining injuries, the aftermath of the fire revealed a poignant scene—a sign saying “Welcome Home” somehow surviving amidst the rubble, while just feet away, melted metal from a vintage file cabinet lay next to a chair symbolizing the home that used to stand there.
Over 2,200 firefighters, along with firefighting helicopters and engines, battled the Airport Fire. As this fire burned to the south of Los Angeles, two other major fires—the Bridge Fire to the north and the Line Fire to the west—also caused significant damage, totaling over 200 structures lost and numerous residents evacuated from their homes.
The Bridge Fire, spanning about 85 square miles across Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties, started near Camp Williams in the Angeles National Forest. By Sept. 16, the fire destroyed 54 structures and damaged 13 others, with three reported injuries and significant evacuation orders in place.
In Wrightwood, a town nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains with a population of 4,500, the devastation affected a close-knit community known for its welcoming atmosphere and scenic surroundings that attract skiers and hikers year-round.
Authorities refrained from disclosing detailed information regarding the structures destroyed by the Bridge Fire, though areas in Los Angeles and San Bernardino still remained under evacuation orders and warnings, affecting thousands of residents.
Efforts to contain the Bridge Fire were underway, with firefighters succeeding in enhancing containment despite challenging windy conditions. In parallel, the Line Fire was at 42 percent containment in San Bernardino County, leaving one house destroyed and three damaged in its path.
With nearly 4,000 fire personnel working to control the Line Fire, the resilient efforts were supported by various equipment to combat the sprawling 61-square-mile blaze amid forecasts of strong winds.
While the fires continued to smolder and pose threats, firefighters remained vigilant, building control lines, and extinguishing hot spots to quell the infernos gradually.
