California Local Government

San Bernardino County authorities say three hikers were found dead Monday near the Devil’s Backbone trail on Mount Baldy in Southern California after being spotted in treacherous winter conditions that have hampered recovery efforts. Sheriff Shannon D. Dicus issued an emergency order temporarily closing all Mount Baldy hiking trails through 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, warning that snow, ice and high winds make the terrain extremely dangerous even for experienced hikers and that violators face fines up to $5,000 for individuals, $10,000 for groups and up to six months in jail.