Last updated October 15, 2021
-

Blue Cut Fire 2016

United States

The Blue Cut Fire began in Cajon Pass in southern California as a small brush fire at 10:36am on August 16 and immediately escalated into a major blaze, consuming 18,000 acres in a matter of hours due to bone-dry hillsides, unusually high temperatures that peaked a 102°F, extremely low humidity, and gusty winds up to 45 mph. By early the next morning, the fire had consumed 30,000 acres.

Exactly one week after it ignited, fire officials declared the devastating wildfire fully contained, peaking at 37,020 burned acres. The fire destroyed an estimated 105 homes and 213 other structures in San Bernardino County and now ranks as the 20th most destructive wildfire in state history.

Extreme heat, years of ongoing drought, and tree die off—all fueled by climate change—are increasing wildfire risk in California.

Get the details
Wildfire