LAKE ELSINORE, CA – A brush fire that ignited on Sunday, August 25, 2024, near the intersection of Tenaja Truck Trail and Verdugo Trail in unincorporated Riverside County, has burned approximately 100 acres. Firefighters have successfully contained 25% of the blaze.
The fire, which started around noon, quickly spread, engulfing nearly 100 acres by mid-afternoon. Initially estimated at 10 acres, the fire’s rapid growth prompted an evacuation warning for the nearby El Carissa Village. Ortega Highway, a crucial route in the area, was temporarily closed in both directions but has since reopened.
Authorities from Cleveland National Forest reported that a reception center was set up for evacuated residents and small pets at Lakeside High School, located at 32593 Riverside Drive in Lake Elsinore. Larger animals were being accommodated at the San Jacinto Animal Shelter at 581 S. Grand Ave.
Fire crews have halted the forward spread of the fire and continue to build containment lines around the perimeter. As of now, the Evacuation Warnings for zones RVC-2143, RVC-2142, RVC-2074, RVC-1934, RVC-1866, RVC-1865, and RVC-1798 have been lifted. Meanwhile, the Evacuation Orders for zones RVC-1933 and RVC-1999 have been downgraded to Evacuation Warnings.
This will be the final update unless the situation changes. Firefighters remain on the scene to ensure full containment and prevent further spread.