A new vegetation fire broke out Monday in Riverside County, quickly expanding and prompting evacuations.
Dubbed the “Juniper Fire” due to its location near Idaleona Road and Juniper Road in the unincorporated Perris area, the blaze was first reported around 11:27 a.m., according to fire officials.
By 1:50 p.m., the fire had swelled to approximately 560 acres and was burning at a critical rate of spread, officials said. The fire is moving through grass and brush, and firefighters are working to contain it with the help of both ground crews and aerial resources. Additional resources have been requested to assist with the firefight.
Evacuation orders have been issued for the following zones:
- RVC-1059
- RVC-1171
- RVC-1170
Residents in these zones are under a lawful order to evacuate immediately. Authorities stress that these areas are under imminent threat and are now closed to public access.
Evacuation warnings are in effect for the following zones:
- RVC-1060
- RVC-1172
- RVC-1173
- RVC-1273
People in these areas should prepare to leave at a moment’s notice.
For more information on the evacuation zones go to the official website.
Santa Rosa Mine Road has been shut down between Juniper Road and Post Road. Authorities are urging the public to stay away from the area for their safety and to allow emergency personnel unimpeded access.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.