FONTANA, Calif.—Within hours, towering, fast-moving flames had ravaged pine forests near the California ski town of Wrightwood — but only half of its more than 4,500 residents had heeded mandatory evacuation orders.
Officials say it was another example of a disturbing trend in the state as infernos speed through drought-starved vegetation during what could be California’s most hazardous fire season on record.
Instead of heading for safety, many homeowners are staying put and dialing 911 for help, U.S. Forest Service spokesman John Miller said
“We have seen that throughout the state this year,” said Miller, who is assigned to San Bernardino National Forest.
Crews, however, aren’t always able to reach those who stay behind.
Some say wildfires have now become a part of living in the wildlands.
