ENVIRONMENT
California wildfire threatens Ridgecrest as containment stalls
PUBLISHED May 12, 2026, 1:48 PM ET
Read, Watch or Listen
RIDGECREST, California — The Canyon Fire has burned more than 2,000 acres in the California desert and remains at 0% containment, according to the Bureau of Land Management and CAL FIRE. The blaze ignited about ten miles west of Ridgecrest and is being driven by gusty winds, triple-digit temperatures, and very low humidity, producing erratic "ash devils" and extreme fire behavior. Evacuation warnings have been expanded as thick black smoke degrades air quality across Kern County. Officials say the Canyon Fire has emerged as an early symbol of an aggressive 2026 U.S. wildfire season, which has already seen over 25,000 fires nationwide.
By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Early 2026 Wildfire season begins above average
- Earlier this year 25,000 U.S. fires recorded
- Recently Canyon Fire ignites west of Ridgecrest
- Same day Flames spread through dry desert fuels
- Today Fire reaches 2,000 acres burned
- Today Authorities report zero percent containment
- Today Evacuation warnings expanded near Ridgecrest
- Today Air quality worsens across Kern County
News Intelligence
- The Canyon Fire's rapid spread is a stark reminder of wildfire risks. If you live in a fire-prone area, it's time to review your evacuation plan. Check that your emergency supplies are up to date. And remember, poor air quality can affect your health, even if you're miles away from the flames.
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