A massive brush fire erupted on the outskirts of the Cahuilla Indian Reservation, located in the scenic region of Aguanga. As of now, the fire has consumed nearly 2,000 acres and is only 5% contained. The hardworking crews battling the blaze are faced with an additional challenge of spot fires breaking out ahead of the main fire.
The fire, known as the Bonny Fire, was first reported at 2:50 p.m. on Thursday near the intersection of Bonny and Barber lanes. Within a span of just two days, it rapidly spread to an area covering 1,938 acres by 5 p.m. on Friday, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.
The officials have expressed concern over the emergence of multiple spot fires ahead of the main blaze. The flames are relentlessly pushing northeast, posing a threat to the surrounding areas.
Shortly after the fire broke out on Thursday, it almost crossed Chapman and Johnston roads. However, swift action was taken by the Cal Fire air tankers and water-dropping helicopters, who strategically deployed in the vicinity of several homes. Their heroic intervention successfully protected these homes from any damage, as confirmed by reports from the site.
As evening fell on Thursday, the fire managed to jump across a road due to mild winds, moving into the hills and further complicating matters for the ground personnel.
By Friday afternoon, the unfortunate destruction was evident as an outbuilding and a vehicle were reduced to ashes by the raging flames.
To combat this formidable fire, a team of five Cal Fire air tankers and three water-dropping helicopters have been consistently rotating in and out of the area. Their tireless efforts are complementing the ground personnel, totaling around 150 to 200 individuals. This includes county engine and hand crews, as well as strike teams and firefighters from esteemed departments such as the Corona Fire Department, Hemet Fire Department, Murrieta Fire & Rescue, and other agencies. In fact, specialized hot shot crews from Kern County have also been dispatched to assist in the firefighting operations.
Given the severity of the situation, an evacuation order was issued on Thursday for the region located south of Bailey Road, north of Running Springs Road, west of Chapman Road, and east of Bonny Lane. It was subsequently expanded on Friday to include all areas north of the San Diego County line, south of Bailey Road, west of Anza-Borrego State Park, and east of Bonny.
Evacuation warnings are also in effect for the area south of Tulle Peak Road, north and east of the Cleveland National Forest boundary, and west of Terwilliger Road.
It is important to note that the affected area has minimal population.
To aid the displaced individuals, a care and reception center has been established at Hamilton High School in Anza. Additionally, the county Department of Animal Services has stationed personnel at the location to assist with the well-being of the animals affected by the fire.
Due to the magnitude of the fire, the South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued a smoke advisory for the region.
Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of this destructive fire.
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