A significant fire broke out in San Bernardino County over the weekend, burning nearly 485 acres and forcing evacuations. The Lake fire ignited around 4 p.m. Saturday at the Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, near Highway 173 and Cedar Springs Dam Trail.
More than 100 people were enjoying the area when the fire started, and many had to flee as flames reached heights of 100 feet. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with some beachgoers, including Shaun Kirkman and his girlfriend, running for safety as the fire approached. Kirkman recalled hearing the fire’s roar and seeing the flames before he and others quickly left the area.
Firefighters from Cal Fire and local agencies worked throughout the weekend to contain the blaze. By Sunday afternoon, officials reported that the fire was only 10% contained, and road closures were in effect along Highways 138 and 173. Evacuation orders remained for the Summit Valley area, where residents were urged to leave their homes.
As the fire spread, park rangers assisted in evacuating people, many of whom were in swimwear and flip-flops. Authorities reported that the fire’s rapid growth was fueled by hot, dry, and windy conditions. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Fire crews faced challenging conditions on Sunday, with gusting winds making their efforts more difficult. Despite these obstacles, officials indicated that they had managed to halt the fire’s forward spread. Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay alert and follow evacuation orders as the situation develops.