Curve Fire

Curve Fire
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The footprint of the Curve Fire in the Angeles National Forest
Date(s)
  • September 1 (1-09)
  • September 5, 2002 (2002-09-05)
  • (5 days)
Location
Coordinates34°16′N 117°50′W / 34.26°N 117.84°W / 34.26; -117.84
Statistics
Burned area20,857 acres (8,441 ha; 33 sq mi; 84 km2)
Impacts
Non-fatal injuries14
Evacuated~8,000 people
Structures destroyed73
Ignition
CauseCandles associated with a Santería ritual
Map
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The general location of the Curve Fire in Southern California

The Curve Fire was a destructive wildfire in the Angeles National Forest in Los Angeles County, California, in September of 2002. The fire, which ignited on September 1 from candles associated with a Santería ritual, grew to 20,857 acres (8,441 hectares) before it was declared fully contained on September 5. The Curve Fire destroyed 73 structures, forced the temporary closure of several highways over the Labor Day weekend, and caused multiple injuries.