California Wildfire Threatens World’s Oldest Tree

California firefighters are battling the Silver Fire, which threatens the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, home to Methuselah, a nearly 5,000-year-old tree, Anadolu Agency reported. The fire, which started on Sunday, has burned about 1,600 acres in the eastern Sierra Nevada, leading to evacuation orders for nearby communities.

As of Tuesday evening, containment was at 60%. Despite progress, the fire remains a significant threat to the forest. Methuselah is not confirmed to be in immediate danger, but evacuation warnings are in place due to forecasted high winds.

Cal Fire noted the wildfire poses risks to structures, critical infrastructure, and endangered species. Firefighting efforts are complicated by extreme cold, powerful winds, and limited aerial support due to poor visibility. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.