Fire season in California has kicked off with intensity, as multiple wildfires have erupted across the state since Saturday. The most significant fires are currently in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, prompting evacuations and road closures.
Officials have warned that the recent fires are just the beginning. As California transitions from a dry winter and spring into a hot summer, the risk of wildfires is expected to increase. While most of the current fires are concentrated in Southern California, crews are also preparing in Northern California, where several counties are under a red flag warning until Tuesday evening.
The Wolf fire, which ignited Sunday afternoon in Riverside County, has rapidly spread to over 2,400 acres. Firefighters have managed to contain about 35% of the blaze as of Tuesday morning, but it is threatening more than 4,200 structures. Evacuation orders are in effect for many areas of Banning and Cabazon, with a shelter set up at Hemet High School for those affected.
Another fire, the Juniper fire, started around 11:30 a.m. on Monday in Perris, Riverside County. While evacuation orders were downgraded by Tuesday morning, about 2,500 residents are still on alert. This fire has burned approximately 688 acres and is 30% contained.
In San Bernardino County, the Lake fire has reached 40% containment after burning 483 acres near Silverwood Lake. An evacuation warning remains for areas north of the lake. Fire crews are focused on strengthening control lines to prevent further spread.
In Lassen County, the Sims fire has reached 70% containment, having burned 223 acres since it started Monday afternoon. Meanwhile, the Mindy fire in Riverside County is 80% contained, with evacuation orders lifted as crews gain control over the 109-acre blaze.
On a positive note, the Mandalay fire and the Smiley fire, both in Riverside County, have been fully contained. The Mandalay fire burned 83 acres, and the Smiley fire also consumed 83 acres.
Several smaller fires under 30 acres have also ignited across the state, including the Kenyon fire in Shasta County and the Quarry fire in San Joaquin County. Fortunately, these smaller fires have not shown significant growth.
As fire crews continue to battle these blazes, residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for potential evacuations. The upcoming months are expected to be challenging as the fire season progresses.