More Evacuations Lifted, Containment Grows on Blue Cut Fire Near Cajon Pass: LATEST DETAILS

CAJON PASS, CA – Three days after a fast-moving wildfire swept through the Cajon Pass, more than 1,500 firefighters remain assigned to the incident. However, officials say they were able to increase containment on the blaze overnight.

The so-called Blue Cut Fire has burned 37,000 acres-- more than 57 square miles-- since it first broke out around 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, according to federal firefighting officials. It is 26 percent contained.

Though a lot of progress was made Thursday with slowing the fire's spread, officials say 34,500 structures are still threatened in the communities of Wrightwood, Oak Hills, Phelan, Lytle Creek, Baldy Mesa, West Cajon Valley, South Hesperia, and Summit Valley.

Forest Service officials say the fire is the most active in the Gobbler's Peak portion south of Wrightwood.

"Structures are known to have been damaged or destroyed but cannot currently be assessed due to the extreme fire behavior and growth," the U.S. Forest Service reports on InciWeb. "A Damage Assessment Team (DAT) has been ordered to assist."

Interstate 15 is open in both directions through the Cajon Pass, but officials are urging motorists to drive with caution through the area, as some equipment is still nearby.

Some mandatory evacuations remain in place for area residents, but some have also been lifted. As of Thursday evening, the mandatory evacuation orders for residents in the areas west of I-15 to Baldy Mesa Road, south of Phelan Road to Whitehaven St. and Praire Trail, expired.

"We ask that residents returning to the evacuation zone exercise caution," the U.S.F.S. said in a statement. "Firefighters, engines, and heavy equipment continue to operate in the area. The San Bernardino County Sheriff will continue enhanced patrols through these areas with additional units."

(Photo: The Blue Cut Fire burns near Lytle Creek on Aug. 17, 2016. Contributed Image.)