Photo by Qian Weizhong/VCG via Getty Images
The Springs Fire, which ignited around 11 a.m. Friday in a recreational area near Lake Perris, California, had grown to more than 4,100 acres by Friday evening and was about 10% contained, according to fire officials. The blaze is burning in a sparsely populated but active outdoor area east of Moreno Valley, a city of roughly 200,000 residents.
Fire crews were dispatched immediately. With more than 250 personnel, dozens of fire engines and multiple helicopters, they battled the flames and worked to protect structures as the blaze raged toward more populated areas of the city. The wind has been the biggest driver, pushing this fire to rapidly grow, which was confirmed by fire officials on the scene.
Alex Izaguirre, a spokesperson for Cal Fire Riverside County, said winds are “spreading the smoke,” leading to an increase in calls from residents in nearby communities who can see and smell it.
The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory for the region. The agency warned that there may be gusts up to 50 mph that could make containment efforts more challenging than they already are. These winds could also lead to erratic fire behavior that fire crews are not expecting.
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Evacuation orders and warnings were issued, with Valley View High School designated as a temporary evacuation site. Animal shelters have also opened to help displaced pets and livestock. Even the schools have been forced to adapt, as Moreno Valley College has closed its main campus due to deteriorating air quality, prompting students and staff to leave immediately.
The cause of the Springs Fire remains under investigation; no deaths have been reported. City officials are urging residents to stay alert, follow evacuation orders and monitor local updates for updates on the fire and containment efforts.
Photo by Qian Weizhong/VCG via Getty Images
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