A rapidly spreading wildfire broke out in Riverside County, California, USA. Authorities have ordered evacuations in high-risk areas while hundreds of firefighters work to control the situation.
The wildfire, named the "Shore Fire," began in the afternoon of 15 June near the city of Calimesa in Riverside County. It quickly expanded, burning approximately 2,600 acres, or about 10 square kilometers.
Fire officials reported that containment has increased to about 25%, up from the previous 20%, as crews work urgently to create firebreaks to prevent the flames from reaching residential areas.
Aerial images show large plumes of smoke covering the area and flames burning near Highway 60, leading to a temporary closure of westbound lanes, with traffic detoured while firefighting teams manage the situation.
Authorities have deployed around 255 firefighters, along with fire trucks, planes, and helicopters, to fight the fire. The affected area is a badlands region with steep, hard-to-access terrain, making firefighting efforts particularly challenging.
Evacuation orders remain in place for some high-risk zones, with temporary shelters set up for residents and their pets who have been displaced from their homes.
So far, there have been no reports of deaths or injuries, nor significant damage to homes. Officials are continuing to investigate the cause of the wildfire.
The wildfire situation in California is being closely monitored due to ongoing hot and dry weather conditions in many areas, which increase the risk of rapid fire spread.
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