Wildfire wreaks havoc in San Bernardino, California

A fast-spreading wildfire wreaked havoc on a hillside community in San Bernardino County, California, on Monday, destroying several homes and prompting evacuations as hundreds of firefighters battled to control the flames.

According to San Bernardino County fire officials, the so-called Edgehill Fire started around 2:40 p.m. in the 3300 block of Beverly Drive in Little Mountain. More than 200 rescue workers were deployed to battle the blaze, which initially spread to more than 100 acres.

By 6 p.m., the San Bernardino County Fire Department reported on its X account that the fire’s progress had been stopped and was at 54 acres with 25% containment: “The fire is currently under control,” the department said.

Arson investigators are still working to determine the cause of the fire. One person was detained for questioning but later released, according to San Bernardino police.

At least three homes were consumed by the fire, according to the Los Angeles Times. Videos from the scene showed residents fleeing their burning properties under a smoke-filled sky. Other images circulating on social media showed a man hurriedly climbing a hill while holding a large turkey, with flames raging behind him.

The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for the area, with temperatures in San Bernardino reaching 100 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday. Temperatures are expected to reach 110 degrees Fahrenheit on Tuesday, keeping the warning in effect until 11:00 p.m.

All residents south of Ridge Line Drive and north of Edgehill Road, extending west to Beverly Drive and east to Circle Road, were ordered to evacuate. As of 9 p.m. Monday, officials confirmed that evacuation orders would remain in effect.

With information from The Associated Press