Firefighters are battling a fast-moving fire burning in Aguanga, Riverside County, that spans 1,219 acres and threatens nearby homes.
Bob Nichols
The fire, which was first reported at 30 acres around 12:40 p.m. in the area of Highlands Road and Aguanga Ranchos Road near the junction of Highways 79 and 371, is being fueled by strong Santa Ana in the area.
The fire damaged at least nine structures, firefighters said.
As a result, the Riverside County Fire Department ordered the evacuation of residents living:
- South of Sage/Golden Eagle Drive,
- East of Becker Lane,
- West of Boulder Vista,
- North of Cottonwood Creek
- East of Vail Lake Resort,
- West of Shirley Way,
- North of David Street,
- South of Pueblo Road/Exa Ely Road.
Mimi Pyle
The fire is currently 0% contained, firefighters said.
Fire departments from Corona, Hemet, Palm Springs and Murrieta are participating in the battle, along with the U.S. Forest Service. In total, more than 300 units participated in the ground attack and more than two dozen aircraft.
A care and reception center has been set up for affected residents at Great Oak High School, located at 32555 Deer Hollow Way in Temecula. They can take all large animals to the San Jacinto Animal Shelter for treatment.
Sam Page