Massive US Line Fire engulfs over 7,100 acres: Thousands evacuated

The massive Line Fire exploded to more than 7,100 acres Saturday in Southern California's San Bernardino County, as over 500 homes in the city of Highland faced mandatory evacuation orders. (Photo: AP)

About 500 firefighters battled the flames as the wildfire nearly doubled in size within hours and remained at zero containment, according to the San Bernardino National Forest. (Photo: AP)

The skies above San Bernardino County lit up in a glowing orange hue as bright red flames could be seen tearing through the shrubbery. (Photo: AP)

Paired with the sweltering heat currently roasting the region, weather officials say that the smoke from the fire has created clouds similar to those that come with thunderstorms, prompting reports of over 1,100 lightning strikes in the area. (Photo: AP)

The small fire-created storm system can also increase winds in the immediate area, which have fanned the flames as it continues to spread and create challenges for firefighters. (Photo: AP)

Amid the chaos, with thousands of people attempting to leave their homes due to the evacuation orders, a small earthquake rattled the area, according to the United States Geological Survey. (Photo: AP)

Firefighters flew through thick, billowing plumes of smoke to make fire retardant drops, working against the blaze from the air and ground. They had managed to keep the flames within the San Bernardino National Forest but winds started to sweep them towards homes. (Photo: AP)

Air quality regulators issued a smoke advisory to warn people about poor, harmful conditions as smoke from the Line Fire is carried by winds into surrounding areas. The air quality is considered "unhealthy for sensitive groups" to "very unhealthy," a category that indicates everyone — including people without any health conditions — may experience harmful side effects. (Photo: AP)