Fire crews completely contain San Bernardino Blue Cut Fire

SAN BERNARDINO (KUSI) — Evacuation orders were lifted for residents displaced by the more than 36 thousand-acre Blue Cut Fire that sparked in the San Bernardino Valley last week as fire crews completely contained the blaze, but hundreds would not have homes to return to.

The blaze burned through at least 105 homes and 216 outbuildings since its start on Aug. 16 in the El Cajon pass west of Interstate 15, according to a preliminary report conducted by a Damage Assessment Team assigned to the Blue Cut Fire. Evacuations previously in effect for Lytle Creek, Wrightwood, Summit Valley, Baldy Mesa, Phelan and Oak Hills were lifted.

Several railroad lines, local roads, state Route 138 and Interstate 15 that were closed due to the fire have since reopened, but fire personnel urged caution if traveling through the Cajon Pass as lanes could be closed for repairs.

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Fire crews continued to be called off the 36,274-acre fire Tuesday morning but some crews remained to secure containment lines. Weather conditions improved significantly this week compared to last, helping firefighters battling the blaze.

The cause of the Blue Cut Fire remains under investigation. Investigators were asking anyone with information about to call 1-800-47-ARSON.

To donate to those affected by the fire visit www.ieuw.org/help or text “RELIEF” to 40403.