North Fire Nearly Contained Following Weekend Rain Storms

As of 8 a.m. Monday morning, July 20, just three days after the North Fire broke out in the Baldy Mesa area, jumping the I-15 freeway, engulfing at least 20 vehicles in flames and forcing motorists to abandon their vehicles, officials from the San Bernardino National Forest have reported that the fire is now 95 percent contained. Acreage was totaled at 4,250 thanks to more accurate GPS-based mapping. Heavy rain fall aided firefighting efforts of the weekend. Fourteen crews, 48 engines, six water tenders, two dozers and a total 608 personnel continue to fight the blaze. Firefighters also continue to construct and improve contaiment lines, mop up, patrol for hot spots and continue fire area rehabilitation. The North Fire started at about 2:33 pm on Friday, July 17 near Interstate 15 north of Highway 138. Interstate 15 has re-opened in both directions. Motorists traveling in the area are asked to please exercise extreme caution while traveling in the I-15 corridor due to emergency personnel and fire operations. Repopulation in the communities of Baldy Mesa and Oak Hills continues but has been hampered by localized flooding in the area. Forest Road Closures are in effect; Baldy Mesa OHV Staging Area, Baldy Mesa Road 3N21, Desert Front Road 3N24, and Forest Road 3N55. An Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS or drone) halted tanker operations for about 25 minutes on Friday afternoon, but operations soon resumed. When drones interfere with firefighting efforts, a wildfire has the potential to grow larger and cause more damage. On the North Fire, an FAA Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in effect and any private aircraft or drone that violates the TFR could face serious criminal charges. Even without a TFR, anyone who hampers firefighting efforts could face charges as well. Fire restrictions for the San Bernardino National Forest remain in effect. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed anywhere on the San Bernardino National Forest. Campfire permits are required for all propane/gas stoves and propane/gas lanterns. The North Fire is currently in Unified Command with Forest Service and CALFIRE, managed by Southern California Team 3, Mike Wakoski. The cause of the fire, which has destroyed 23 structures and injured at least one, is under investigation, fire officials said.