Southern California Battles Two Brush Fires Amidst Strong Winds

A brush fire, named the Springs Fire, began around 11 a.m. on Friday near Moreno Valley, California, leading to evacuation orders in Riverside County. Concurrently, a separate brush fire in Acton, northern Los Angeles County, also prompted evacuations.

The Springs Fire initially affected 55 acres of light fuels and expanded to 2.34 square miles (6.06 square kilometers) by 2:30 p.m. on Friday, while the Acton fire burned 34 acres.

The Springs Fire: Moreno Valley Area Details

The Springs Fire was reported at approximately 11 a.m. on Friday on Gilman Springs Road in Moreno Valley, Riverside County, located in Southern California's Inland Empire. Its cause is currently under investigation.

Initially reported at 55 acres of light fuels, the fire had grown significantly. By 2:30 p.m. the same day, it had expanded to 2.34 square miles (6.06 square kilometers). The fire is situated east of Moreno Valley, a city with a population of approximately 200,000, located 64 miles (103 kilometers) east of Los Angeles, and was noted to be burning in a recreational area.

Evacuations and Road Closures

Evacuation orders were issued for zones MOE-0507, RVC-0748, and RVC-0826 due to the Springs Fire. Multiple evacuation orders and warnings were issued, though the specific number of households affected was not immediately disclosed.

In connection with the Springs Fire, Gilman Springs Road was closed from Alessandro Road to Bridge Street.

Separate Incident: Acton Area Brush Fire

Separately, fire crews addressed another brush fire in the Acton area of northern Los Angeles County. This incident, identified as the Crown Fire by one source, had burned 34 acres.

Evacuation orders and warnings were also issued for communities near this fire.

Weather Conditions Fueling Fires

Strong winds were reported in the region, posing significant challenges for firefighting efforts. The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory for the San Bernardino and Riverside County valleys, forecasting gusts up to 50 mph (80 kph) through Saturday afternoon.

These conditions were noted as having the potential to result in downed tree limbs and power outages. Santa Ana winds were reported to be active across Southern California during this period.