Fact Check: "Highway 138 remains shut down due to raging fires."
What We Know
The claim that "Highway 138 remains shut down due to raging fires" is currently inaccurate. According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), the Bridge Fire, which affected areas in Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties, has been reported as 100% contained as of October 28, 2024. This indicates that the immediate threat from this fire has been mitigated, and the highway's status may have changed since the fire's containment.
However, there are ongoing fire incidents in the region. For instance, the Lake Fire has prompted evacuations and has led to closures of Highway 138. Reports indicate that this fire is active and has caused significant disruptions, including mandatory evacuations in certain areas near the highway.
Analysis
The claim's validity hinges on the specific context of Highway 138's status at the time of the assertion. While the Bridge Fire is no longer a threat, the Lake Fire has emerged as a new concern, leading to closures of Highway 138 and surrounding areas. The Los Angeles Times and San Bernardino Sun confirm that Highway 138 is currently closed due to the Lake Fire, which is actively burning hundreds of acres.
The reliability of the sources is strong, as CAL FIRE is a reputable agency responsible for fire management in California. The news outlets reporting on the Lake Fire provide timely updates and are known for their coverage of local events. However, it is important to note that the situation can change rapidly in wildfire scenarios, and the status of road closures may vary based on ongoing firefighting efforts and weather conditions.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that "Highway 138 remains shut down due to raging fires" is misleading. While Highway 138 is currently closed due to the Lake Fire, the previous fire, the Bridge Fire, is fully contained. Therefore, the statement lacks context and specificity regarding which fire is causing the closure. It is crucial to verify the latest information as wildfire conditions can evolve quickly.
