A fierce wildfire, dubbed the Lake Fire, erupted near Silverwood Lake in San Bernardino County, California, on Saturday afternoon, June 28, 2025, sparking immediate concern for residents and authorities. Igniting around 3:50 p.m. near the Silverwood Lake State Recreational Area, the blaze has rapidly grown, threatening structures and prompting urgent evacuation orders. Fueled by dry conditions and strong winds, the fire has already scorched over 150 acres and shows no signs of slowing, with officials warning it could expand to hundreds more if not contained soon. Firefighters from multiple agencies are battling the flames under challenging conditions, and the situation remains critical as the region braces for potential further spread.
Silverwood Lake Under Threat
The Lake Fire is burning with alarming intensity on both sides of Highway 138, near the scenic Silverwood Lake, a popular spot for recreation in the San Bernardino Mountains. The fire’s rapid spread has led to the closure of Highway 138 between Old Mill Road and the 15 Freeway, as well as Highway 173 at its intersection with 138. Authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for residents south of Highway 138, from Highway 173 to Summit Valley Road. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is overseeing evacuations, with reports of campers and visitors being urgently moved from the Silverwood Lake area. Social media posts from evacuees describe chaotic scenes, with thick smoke billowing over the hills as families and beachgoers fled to safety.
Firefighters from Cal Fire, the San Bernardino County Fire Department, and San Bernardino National Forest crews are working tirelessly to contain the blaze. The fire’s dangerous rate of spread, driven by winds pushing it northwest, has made containment efforts difficult. Initial reports suggest the fire has consumed 65–70 acres on the western side of Silverwood Lake, but updated estimates indicate it has grown to at least 150 acres, with the potential to reach 1,000 acres if conditions worsen. Incident Command has called for a robust response, including night-flying helicopters and multiple fire engines, to combat the blaze.
Challenges Facing Firefighters
The terrain around Silverwood Lake, combined with dry vegetation and gusty winds, poses significant challenges for firefighting efforts. The fire’s location in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains makes access tricky, with unpaved roads and rugged landscapes slowing ground crews. Aerial support, including air tankers and helicopters, is being deployed to drop retardant and water in an attempt to slow the fire’s advance. However, low humidity and high temperatures—reaching the 90s with relative humidity as low as 9%—are exacerbating the situation, creating ideal conditions for the fire to spread.
Reports indicate unconfirmed accounts of individuals possibly trapped at a campground near Cleghorn Road, with emergency responders receiving multiple calls for help. Authorities are prioritizing the safety of those in the area, with law enforcement assisting in clearing campgrounds and recreational sites. The San Bernardino County Fire Department has also noted a possible second fire in the nearby Oro Grande area, where smoke has been spotted, adding to the strain on resources.
Key Point Summary:
- Fire Details: The Lake Fire began on June 28, 2025, near Silverwood Lake, burning over 150 acres with potential to grow significantly.
- Evacuations: Mandatory evacuations ordered south of Highway 138, with Sheriff’s Department overseeing operations.
- Road Closures: Highway 138 closed from Old Mill Road to the 15 Freeway; Highway 173 closed at 138.
- Response: Cal Fire, San Bernardino County Fire, and National Forest crews deployed, with air support in use.
- Conditions: Dry vegetation, high temperatures, and strong winds fuel rapid fire spread.
Community Impact and Safety Measures
The Silverwood Lake community, including nearby Hesperia, is on high alert as the fire threatens homes and recreational areas. The lake, a cherished destination for boating, fishing, and camping, has become a focal point of concern as flames encroach. Evacuation centers have been set up to accommodate displaced residents, and authorities are urging people to avoid the area to allow emergency responders unimpeded access. Social media is abuzz with images of smoke rising over the lake, with some users reporting visibility of the fire from as far as Victor Valley.
Local officials are emphasizing preparedness, encouraging residents to stay informed through official channels and to have evacuation plans ready. The San Bernardino County Fire Department has advised those in need of assistance to contact emergency services immediately. With California already grappling with over 2,600 wildfires this year, which have burned nearly 90,000 acres and claimed 30 lives, the Lake Fire underscores the heightened fire risk across the state.
Looking Ahead
As night falls, the battle against the Lake Fire continues, with firefighters working to establish containment lines and protect structures. The potential for the fire to grow to several hundred acres remains a pressing concern, particularly with forecasts predicting continued windy conditions. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and updates are expected as the response progresses. For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents and containing the blaze before it can cause further damage.
Stay safe and informed by following local news outlets and official updates from the San Bernardino County Fire Department and Cal Fire. If you’re in the affected area, prepare an emergency kit and stay ready to evacuate if necessary.