Silver Fire Expands, Causes Highway Closure

The Silver Fire, which started on Sunday near Bishop, California, has rapidly spread to cover over 1,250 acres, causing mandatory evacuations in parts of Inyo and Mono counties. Strong winds, with gusts up to 65 mph, have exacerbated the situation, grounding some firefighting aircraft and complicating containment efforts, which remain at zero percent. Critical infrastructure, endangered species habitats, and cultural resources are under threat as the fire continues to spread. A 30-mile stretch of U.S. Highway 6 has been closed, and evacuation centers have been established, including one at Benton Community Center. No injuries or structural damage have been reported yet, and the cause of the fire is still under investigation. Efforts to control the blaze are ongoing, with more than 200 firefighters deployed to the scene.