LLANO (CNS) – The Summit Fire in the Antelope Valley was 72% contained Wednesday and the cause officially remained under investigation, despite conflicting reports about what sparked the high desert blaze.
Fire activity was minimal Tuesday with no perimeter growth, according to a statement issued by the Summit Fire Unified Command, which consists of Los Angeles County Fire Department, Cal Fire and U.S. Forest Service Angeles National Forest.
The number of firefighters has been reduced from over 1,000 to about 800, according to a Wednesday morning update.
Interior pockets and heavy fuels continue to smolder. Dense annual vegetation remains highly receptive to ignition due to recent hot, dry, and windy conditions, the statement said.
Cal Fire Damage Inspection teams have completed their field assessments. Even though evacuation warnings have been lifted, there is still heavy fire equipment working in the area. Residents are urged to drive with caution.
An extreme heat warning will remain in effect until Thursday evening. The prolonged heat, combined with steep, rocky terrain and narrow roads, presents significant hazards including heat-related illnesses and rolling material, the statement said.
There is also a continued threat of thunderstorms bringing lightning and sudden wind shifts. If these storms materialize, crews should prepare for erratic wind gusts exceeding 40 mph and heavy downpours.
Crews will continue mopping up hot spots and patrolling control lines. Sustained heat and poor overnight humidity recovery may reactivate previously dormant heat sources. Recent burn areas and prior fuel treatments at the head of the fire will continue to aid suppression efforts, the statement said.
There were 799 personnel assigned to the fire Tuesday, along with 53 engines, 10 water tenders and four dozers, according to Cal Fire.
The Summit Fire Unified Command issued a statement at 2:59 p.m. Tuesday saying the cause of the fire remained under investigation.
“Unverified reports circulating are claiming to reveal how the fire started,” the statement said. “Unified Command emphasizes that the information currently being shared across these platforms consists of unverified rumors, and they remind the public that speculation misleads those communities impacted.
“Trained fire investigators from Los Angeles County Fire Department are analyzing evidence, and they need time to perform the complex investigation. Unified Command asks for the community’s patience and cooperation in allowing these professionals the necessary time and space to conduct a thorough and professional inquiry.
“Residents and the media are strongly encouraged to avoid spreading unverified claims on social media and to rely solely on official updates provided by the partner agencies.”
San Bernardino County Fire Department Assistant Chief Kelly Anderson, who serves as assistant chief of the North Desert Division for the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District, said during an annual fireworks workshop in Adelanto Monday that illegal fireworks sparked the Summit Fire.
The fire has destroyed five structures and damaged seven others, according to Cal Fire.
One firefighter injury has been reported. Details about the seriousness of the injury were not immediately available.
Recent Comments