A wildfire in the Cajon Pass was raging out of control Tuesday, and its effects can be felt in the Morongo Basin. The Blue Cut Fire started about 10:30 Tuesday morning west of Interstate 15 and by midnight had exploded to more than 18,000 acres with zero percent containment. The fire had nearly doubled in size overnight, growing to 30,000 acres by 7 a.m. The fire is advancing in many directions. Six firefighters had to shelter in place when they were trapped by the advancing flames; two firefighters were treated for moderate injuries but are back fighting the wildfire. A smoke advisory has been issued for parts of San Bernardino County, and Governor Jerry Brown has declared a state of emergency for the county. At this time, it’s unknown how many structures have been destroyed in the fire, but Sheriff’s officials estimate they have ordered mandatory evacuations of more than 80,000 residents from 34,500 homes. Affected areas include the Cajon Pass area, Lytle Creek, Wrightwood, Oak Hills and surrounding areas, and portions of I-15 and Highway 138 have been closed. As long as those roads are closed, traffic is being diverted to Interstate 10 to Highway 62 to State Route 247. Residents are urged to use alternate routes in Yucca Valley, such as Yucca Trail and Sunnyslope.
Photo courtesy San Bernardino County Fire
Photo courtesy San Bernardino County Fire
