IRVINE- On Sunday, October 21, the Santiago Canyon fire started to blaze, burning 20,000 acres east of Irvine. The fire is estimated to have caused approximately ten million dollars worth of damage, and is estimated to be thirty percent contained as fire fighters continue to work against Mother Nature. The cause of the fire was last said to have been arson-related, and authorities are continuing investigation. The Santa Ana winds and dry air persist, adding further difficulties to containment. Many families have been affected by the fire.

The fire has upset Beckman students, staff, and school-related events in various ways. Many sports were canceled because of the poor air quality. Some Beckman students were personally affected from the aftermath of the unexpected fire. Abruptly uplifted from his home last week, Brandon Ross, a sophmore states, “I looked out my window and saw the flames. I knew right away I was about to get myself out of my house in a hurry! I told my mom, grabbed my shoes and stuff, and we were out.” Although the fire didn’t affect everyone personally, many showed their sympathy for family and loved ones. “I was so scared when I found out my friend’s school was evacuated. I just wanted to make sure he was safe,” freshman Ana Burros said, warmheartedly. Some homes even became the hide-away for family members as they awaited the end of the fire.

The circumstances of the fires are constantly changing everyday. Along with the Santiago Canyon Fire, nine others continue to roar across Southern California. Fire authorities were hoping to have most of the fires stably contained by today, November 2, predicting anything conclusively is difficult. Fire fighters and government authorities are advising citizens to continue to be prepared for anything and remain as safe as possible.