Wildfires Threaten California Ski Resorts

12th September 2024

Last modified on September 14th, 2024

The Bridge Fire spread rapidly through parts of the mountains in southern California.

As it approached Mountain High the resort used its snow-making machines.

#BridgeFire UPDATE ‼️

‘The resort is still assessing the situation but anticipates opening on time for the upcoming season.’https://t.co/1rN5ES4c0T

Download the App to stay connected with Mountain High. Get the latest fire updates plus live cams, weather forecasts, and more.

— Mountain High (@mthigh) September 12, 2024

Firefighters say that by turning on the snow machines the vegetation at the resort may have been damp enough to stop fires starting and spreading.

Flames also threatened Big Bear Resort and Snow Valley Resort.

Currently it appears Big Bear has been spared, but it’s unclear about the conditions at  Snow Valley.

The Bridge Fire has covered more than 50,000 acres and continues to burn.

UPDATE:

Mountain High has issued the following press release:

The Caanf Bridge Fire moved through parts of Mountain High Resort overnight, briefly engaging with a few lifts.

However, as of 11 a.m. this morning, initial reports indicate that base facilities remain intact.

Los Angeles County Fire Station 130, stationed at the West Resort, has been credited with the incredible work of defending the property.

The captain of Engine 130 also confirmed that the building and restaurant at the top of East Resort survived the fire.

“We are grateful beyond words for the swift and courageous actions of Los Angeles County Fire Department Division 5 and all the first responders working tirelessly to protect our resort and community,” said John McColly, vice president of marketing for Mountain High and CaliPass Resorts.

“We stand in solidarity with everyone affected by the Caanf Bridge Fire and are committed to supporting our community as we come out of this tragedy stronger than ever.”

The resort is still assessing the situation but anticipates opening on time for the upcoming season.

While the fire briefly impacted some of the resort’s infrastructure, there have been no confirmed reports of structural damage, and teams will conduct thorough inspections as soon as it is safe to access the area.

Mountain High Resort continues to work closely with the Unified Command, which includes CAL FIRE, Los Angeles County Fire, and the San Bernardino County Fire, among others.

The safety of staff, guests, and the surrounding community remains the top priority.

The situation remains fluid, and Mountain High Resort will provide updates as credible information becomes available.

The resort is hopeful for the continued safety of the firefighters and law enforcement teams on the front lines.