Highland, California — A Fil-Am family from the foothills of Highland, California, is among the thousands forced to evacuate as wildfires ravage Southern California. The Cantuba family, living just a few hundred feet from the fireline of the Line Fire, was evacuated under mandatory orders as flames rapidly spread through their neighborhood.
Samantha Cantuba described the experience as overwhelming. “It felt like we were in a movie, but a bad movie,” she said. Her sister, Sarah, recalled grabbing important documents and essentials in a panic as the fire approached.
While firefighters continue to battle the blaze, which has burned nearly 40,000 acres, the Cantuba family is relieved their home was spared. However, they remain concerned about health issues caused by smoke inhalation, particularly for their elderly parents, who have struggled with breathing difficulties since the evacuation.
The Line Fire, allegedly started by 34-year-old Justin Wayne Halstenberg, is one of three major wildfires threatening Southern California. Over 65,000 structures remain at risk as evacuation orders persist for many mountain and foothill communities. Despite some progress in containment, the fires continue to pose a significant threat.
The Fil-Am community is reminded to stay alert for evacuation orders and adhere to safety protocols to protect themselves from the ongoing wildfire threats.
