The fast-moving Airport fire in Lake Elsinore, California has so far consumed more than 9,000 acres (3,600 hectares) since it was started accidentally on 9 September in the afternoon by workers operating heavy equipment. Wildfires are a natural part of the wilderness cycle and are not unusual in California and other parts of the US West at this time of year. After two relatively mild fire years, 2024 is shaping up to be significant.