Strong Smoke Monday Over Riverside County Coming From Line Fire Flares

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — The nearly monthlong Line Fire burning in San Bernardino County sent strong smoke Monday morning over Riverside County due to flareups, and an advisory is in effect.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a wildfire smoke advisory due to the blaze which has burned 43,251 acres and was 80% contained. The advisory was effective until 5 p.m. Monday.

Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department confirmed that the smoke across the region is coming from the Line Fire.

The SCAQMD announced, "Calm winds in the South Coast Air basin are expected to cause smoke to impact Highland, San Bernardino, Redlands, Yucaipa, Beaumont and surrounding areas, with AQI reaching the 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' or higher category."

As of late Monday morning, the smoke drifted as far as Southwest Riverside County.

Anyone in the area impacted by smoke was advised by the SCAQMD to limit exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed or seeking alternate shelter. The public was also advised to avoid vigorous physical activity and to run air conditioning and/or an air purifier.

"If possible, do not use swamp coolers or whole house fans that bring in outside air," the SCAQMD advised.

The SCAQMD said a properly fit N95 or P100 respirator may provide some protection for those who must be outside in affected areas.

The Line Fire flared up over the weekend, causing new evacuations Sunday.

Residents in Seven Oaks and the Barton Flats area, including all campgrounds and cabins, were ordered to evacuate.

See all evacuation orders and warnings here.

In a Monday morning update, Cal Fire reported that the Line Fire made a run up the Santa Ana River drainage.

"The last few days of above normal temperatures have dried out both the vegetation and moisture from the air," according to the agency's update. "Firefighters had expected some movement along the open line in this area, however, fire behavior exceeded expectations. The dry vegetation, steep slopes and wind aligned yesterday to create conditions for the rapid fire spread yesterday.

"Although work continues throughout the fire, the Santa Ana River drainage is the priority for today," Cal Fire continued. "Additional crews and equipment are focused in this area. Four night-flying helicopters are assigned to the incident and were actively dropping water in the drainage last night."

The Line Fire has burned since Sept. 5 after breaking out at Baseline and Alpine streets in Highland. Officials say it was sparked by alleged arson (read more: Norco Man Suspected Of Igniting Line Fire Burning In IE).

To date, one structure was destroyed in the blaze and four others were damaged. Four people — firefighters and civilians — have been injured in the fire.