Wildfires in Riverside County Prompt Evacuations Due to Windy Conditions
Amid Santa Ana winds, two new fires have sparked in Riverside County, leading to fresh evacuations in Southern California. The Scout fire broke out near Mission Boulevard and Crestmore Road in Jurupa Valley, while the second fire ignited in Hemet near Warren Road and Esplanade Avenue, as confirmed by Riverside County fire officials.
Current Situation and Response
As of 1 p.m., the Scout fire had already scorched two acres and had the potential to consume five acres, revealed Riverside Fire Department Division Chief Michael Staley. The fire originated around 12:03 p.m. in the Santa Ana River bottom, with no immediate threats to structures. However, 13 units were immediately dispatched to battle the raging flames, with helicopters performing water drops to contain the fire. Unfortunately, by 1:15 p.m., the fire was still not under control.
In a relief to residents, the evacuation order for Mt. Rubidoux Park, located just west of downtown Riverside, was lifted later in the afternoon. Notably, Riverside Community Hospital lies approximately half a mile southeast of the park, while the historic Mission Inn Hotel is about four-fifths of a mile away.
The Stone fire that erupted in Hemet was successfully contained by 1:10 p.m., with the blaze commencing around noon, according to Hemet fire officials.
Weather Conditions and Warnings
A red flag warning has been issued for the entire Inland Empire, extending to the Riverside and San Bernardino County mountains until Wednesday at 6 p.m., as confirmed by National Weather Service meteorologist Sebastian Westerink. The region is experiencing gusty winds of 30 to 40 mph in areas near the Banning Pass, Fontana, and Rialto, located north of Riverside. The combination of strong winds, low humidity around 10%, and extremely dry fuel has created hazardous fire weather conditions, persisting from Tuesday into Wednesday, as highlighted by Westerink. He mentioned, “The vegetation hasn’t received significant precipitation in about eight months,” underscoring the heightened risk of wildfires.
As the situation unfolds, authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and follow all safety protocols to ensure their well-being and that of the community.
