How many acres have wildfires burned in California this year? – NBC Los Angeles

Wildfires in California have burned more than 1 million acres of land this year, a significant increase from last year as the state enters one of the most dangerous times of the year for fires.

Cal Fire statistics updated Tuesday show 6,528 wildfires have burned 1,001,993 acres so far this year. Last year, in early October, 5,492 wildfires burned 293,462 acres.

Total acreage brings California close to its five-year average as of early October of 1,085,577 acres.

The most historically dangerous months lie ahead of us. Fall is typically the worst time of year for wildfires in Southern California due to dry conditions and the notorious Santa Ana winds, which have fueled some of the region's most devastating fires.

The fires include three large wildfires in Southern California that started in early September and continued to burn about a month later.

As of Tuesday, the arson-caused line fire in San Bernardino County covered 43,400 acres, with containment at 76 percent. That number is down from earlier in the week as an eruption necessitated further evacuations.

The Bridge Fire in San Bernardino County covered 54,800 acres and was 98 percent contained. The airport fire in Orange and Riverside counties has been 95 percent contained over 23,500 acres.

Firefighters gained ground after temperatures cooled, but warmer conditions emerged over the weekend.

“The dry vegetation, steep slopes and wind aligned … to create conditions for the rapid spread of the fire,” said a statement from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Cal Fire, late Monday.

Above average temperatures are forecast for this week.