Multiple Wildfires Ignite in Inland Empire, Prompting Evacuations and Road Closures
Fire crews in Riverside and San Bernardino counties are currently grappling with several wildfires that erupted over the weekend, forcing emergency evacuations and disrupting area roadways.
Fast-Moving Mandalay Fire in Riverside
The Mandalay Fire ignited on Sunday afternoon around 1:45 p.m. near Tyler Street and Mandalay Court in Riverside County, quickly spreading across 83 acres. This blaze prompted immediate evacuation orders for neighborhoods north of Arlington Avenue, and several adjacent streets, including Gaylor Street, Eureka Drive, and Mandalay Court.
Fire officials reported that multiple agencies, including five mutual aid engine companies and Cal Fire, responded along with aerial firefighting units such as water-dropping aircraft. While the fire generated heavy, drifting smoke that caused concern among Riverside residents, by 4:40 p.m., forward progress of the fire had been halted.
An evacuation and reception center was established at La Sierra Senior Community Center at 5215 La Sierra Avenue to assist displaced residents. Authorities continue investigating the fire's origin.
Wolf Fire Expands Rapidly Near Banning
In a separate incident, the Wolf Fire erupted shortly after 3 p.m. Sunday near Old Banning Idyllwild Road and Wolfskill Truck Trail in Riverside County. Within hours, the fire exploded to over 1,100 acres amid challenging dry conditions.
Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for multiple zones, including areas north of Poppet Flat Divide Truck Trail and south of the 10 Freeway, among others. Evacuation warnings cover additional nearby regions. About 750 residents were affected by these orders and warnings.
Four helicopters equipped for night operations were deployed, and more than 300 firefighters worked overnight to contain the blaze, which was approximately 10% contained as of late Sunday. A care center opened at Hemet High School, with an animal evacuation site established in San Jacinto.
Additional Fires in the Region
- Lake Fire near Silverwood Lake in San Bernardino County consumed about 485 acres and remains 15% contained.
- Mindy Fire near Aguanga burned around 100 acres with containment nearly at 50%; evacuation orders were downgraded to warnings.
- Cable Fire in the Devore area triggered evacuation orders for Martin Ranch Road north of West Meyers and evacuation warnings closer to Little League Drive.
- The Smiley Fire in Riverside County is largely under control with 99% containment after burning 83 acres.
Community Impact and Ongoing Efforts
Residents in areas adjacent to these fires expressed concern and vigilance as smoke loomed over the region. Some took protective measures such as wetting down roofs before evacuation. Fire departments remain on high alert, continuing to battle these fires through aerial and ground operations.
Authorities urge the public to stay updated on evacuation orders and to heed their guidance. They also advise residents to prepare for potential air quality impacts due to smoke in the Inland Empire communities.
What’s Next?
Firefighters, supported by multiple agencies, continue to contain these fast-moving wildfires. Investigations into their causes are ongoing, and officials will update the public as conditions evolve.
Summary of Inland Empire Wildfires:
| Fire Name | Location | Acres Burned | Containment | Start Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mandalay Fire | Riverside County | 83 acres | 0% | Sunday, 1:45 p.m. |
| Wolf Fire | Beaumont / Banning | 1,165+ acres | 10% | Sunday, 3:06 p.m. |
| Lake Fire | South of Hesperia (San Bernardino) | 485 acres | 15% | Saturday, 3:50 p.m. |
| Mindy Fire | Anza / East of Temecula | 100 acres | 50% | Sunday, 3:41 p.m. |
| Cable Fire | Devore (San Bernardino) | 15 acres | 0% | Sunday, 3:40 p.m. |
| Smiley Fire | Riverside County | 83 acres | 99% | Saturday, 2:25 p.m. |
