After a heat wave that saw triple-digit temperatures and dry conditions, wildfires have spread rapidly in US States of California and Nevada.
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| California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection supervisors look on as the Line Fire continues to rapidly grow in San Bernardino County on Sept. 7. Photo: Jon Putman/SOPA Images/Sipa USA via AP via nbcnews.com |
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said, as of Monday evening, the Line Fire in the foothills of the San Bernardino National Forest spans over 25,800 acres as well as stands just 5% contained while threatening some 38,000 structures.
The fire which started on the night of Thursday, east of Los Angeles, has so far forced at least 6,000 people to evacuate.
According to nbcnews.com:
Heat surrounding the Line Fire created its own weather system Saturday, producing thunderstorm-like pyrocumulus clouds — or fire clouds — which were responsible for 280 lightning strikes hitting the ground, the National Weather Service said. Pyrocumulus clouds have also been seen around two other major Southern California fires: the Airport Fire in Orange County and the Bridge Fire in Angeles National Forest.
More than 1,000 personnel are fighting the wildfire, encompassing 191 engines and 15 helicopters.
