A wildfire called the Line Fire was burning uncontrolled in the foothills of the San Bernardino National Forest, 65 miles east of Los Angeles, amid a heat wave that pushed temperatures into the triple digits in the region. The fire had charred about 11 square miles of land, with dark smoke blanketing the area. Evacuations were expanded, and about 500 firefighters were working to contain the blaze, which began Thursday evening and is still under investigation. Water-dropping helicopters and aircraft were also assisting in battling the fire, which firefighters said had the potential for large growth.
The fire produced dense smoke and leaping flames that could be seen cresting hillside ridges, but no injuries or structural damage had been reported. Meanwhile, downtown Los Angeles experienced its third day since 1877 with a high temperature of 112 degrees Fahrenheit on Friday, adding to the extreme conditions in the region. The situation remained critical as firefighters continued their efforts to contain the blaze and protect homes and residents in the area.
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