A fast-moving wildfire is spreading out of control near Bishop, California, scorching at least 1,000 acres and prompting emergency evacuations. The blaze, dubbed the *Silver Fire*, ignited Sunday afternoon near Highway 6 and Silver Canyon Road, quickly jumping across the highway as strong winds and extremely dry conditions fueled its rapid growth.
Firefighters are facing significant challenges as the fire remains 0% contained , with gusty winds preventing aircraft from effectively battling the flames from above. Several firefighting planes were grounded at Bishop’s airport due to dangerous turbulence caused by the intense fire activity. Authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for residents in Northern Inyo County, parts of Mono County including the communities of Laws and Chalfant, and the White Mountains Wilderness Area.
The inferno has forced the closure of a 30-mile stretch of Highway 6 after flames leaped across the roadway, while thick black smoke has created hazardous driving conditions throughout the region. Displaced residents can seek shelter at the Benton Community Center located at 58869 Highway 120 in Benton.
This latest wildfire comes just three months after devastating fires tore through Southern California, including the Palisades Fire which burned 23,000 acres and the Eaton Fire that consumed 14,000 acres. Those earlier blazes destroyed over 16,000 structures and caused an estimated $30 billion in damages.
With the *Silver Fire* still actively burning through dense brush, fire crews are working around the clock to establish containment lines. Officials warn the situation remains extremely dangerous and urge residents to heed all evacuation orders. Updates will be provided as new information becomes available from fire authorities.
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