A wildfire fueled by Santa Ana winds ripped through rural land southeast of Los Angeles, forcing about 4,000 people from their homes, fire authorities said.
The Highland Fire erupted at about 12:45 p.m. Monday in dry, brushy hills near the unincorporated Riverside County hamlet of Aguanga.
As of early Tuesday, the fire had grown to 3.5 square miles and was not contained, officials said in a social media post.
About 1,300 homes and 4,000 residents were under evacuation orders, fire spokesman Jeff LaRusso said.
More than 1,100 personnel, 130 engines and 10 helicopters are working on the fire, according to CalFire.
“The fire growth throughout the day was minimal; however, easterly winds continued and are forecast to remain in the area through Thursday evening, which have the potential to continue pushing the fire in a west/southwest direction,” a CalFire update states. “Firefighters will continue constructing handline around the perimeter. Extremely steep and rugged terrain remains a challenge. Current and expected weather of steady winds with low relative humidity may increase the risk of erratic fire behavior.”
One injured has been reported, with six structures damaged and three destroyed.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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