US: Authorities continue to contain wildfire in San Bernardino County, Calif., as of late Sept. 29 /update 4

Crews continue working to contain the Line Fire burning in parts of San Bernardino County, California, as of late Sept. 29. Authorities have declared a state of emergency in San Bernardino County.

The Line Fire broke out the evening of Sept. 5 near Baseline and Aplin streets. The fire has burned around 16,276 hectares (40,219 acres) and is 83 percent contained. A flare-up in the fire prompted new evacuation orders the afternoon of Sept. 29. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for the community of Seven Oaks, including the Barton Flats area and nearby cabins and campgrounds. Evacuation warnings are in effect for Angelus Oaks and the Boulder Bay area of Big Bear from the dam east to Wildrose Lane. Officials have established an evacuation shelter at Redlands East Valley High School. Several road closures are in effect in the area, including Highway 330 in both directions from Highland Ave to Live Oak and Highway 38 between Big Bear and Angelus Oaks. Full details on the locations of evacuation orders and road closures can be found here. The fire has resulted in at least four injuries, destroyed one structure, and damaged four other structures.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities may close additional routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate more communities depending on fire activity and the needs of response operators. Residents' return will probably disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Power outages are likely in affected areas. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall will likely contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.