Southern California Wildfires Force Thousands to Evacuate, Destroy Dozens of Homes

Firefighters gain ground with cooler weather, but massive blazes continue to threaten communities and infrastructure.

Three major wildfires—Airport, Line, and Bridge—are burning across Southern California, affecting Riverside, Orange, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino counties.
The Bridge Fire has become the largest active fire in the state, burning over 51,000 acres and destroying at least 33 homes and six cabins.
The Airport Fire, sparked by heavy equipment, has burned more than 35 square miles and is 5% contained; efforts are ongoing to protect structures and build containment lines.
Authorities arrested a suspect for arson in connection with the Line Fire, which has burned 37,000 acres and is 18% contained.
Governor Gavin Newsom has deployed National Guard troops for evacuations and secured federal assistance, with President Biden monitoring the situation.