Firefighters gain ground on 3 huge Southern California blazes

Firefighters in Southern California have made notable progress in combating three major wildfires, aided by cooler weather conditions. The Bridge Fire, the largest of the three, has consumed 81 square miles and resulted in the destruction of at least 33 homes and six cabins, displacing around 10,000 residents. As of Friday, the fire was only 3% contained, and its cause remains unknown. Fire crews have been working tirelessly, employing aerial support to fight the blaze around the clock. In addition to the Bridge Fire, the Line Fire has charred 59 square miles within the San Bernardino mountains, a popular destination for skiing and mountain biking.

Zoo officials at Big Bear Zoo reported that all animals were relocated to a Palm Desert zoo to ensure their safety from the encroaching fires. The current wildfire season has already seen nearly three times the acreage burned compared to all of 2023, raising concerns among authorities and residents alike. As the situation evolves, officials are beginning to scale back evacuation orders for some areas, signaling a cautious optimism.