Springs Fire Near Moreno Valley Prompts Evacuations

Springs Fire Near Moreno Valley Prompts Evacuations...

A fast-moving wildfire erupted near Moreno Valley, California, on Thursday afternoon, forcing evacuations and threatening homes. The blaze, dubbed the Springs Fire, has already scorched over 200 acres amid dry, windy conditions.

The fire began around 2:30 p.m. PDT near the intersection of Gilman Springs Road and Highway 79. Riverside County Fire Department spokesperson Rob Roseen confirmed multiple air tankers and ground crews are battling the flames. "We're seeing rapid spread due to 25 mph winds," Roseen told reporters.

Mandatory evacuations were issued for at least 150 homes in the Moreno Valley Highlands neighborhood. The American Red Cross opened a temporary shelter at Valley View High School. Social media footage shows thick plumes of smoke visible from Interstate 215.

This marks the first major wildfire of Southern California's 2026 fire season. The National Weather Service had issued a red flag warning for the region earlier this week. Climate scientists note the area's vegetation is exceptionally dry following a winter with below-average rainfall.

Pacific Gas & Electric reported 1,200 customers without power in the fire zone as a precautionary measure. The Moreno Valley Unified School District canceled after-school activities at three campuses. California Highway Patrol has closed Gilman Springs Road in both directions.

The Springs Fire is trending nationally as it threatens densely populated suburbs east of Los Angeles. Many Americans are monitoring the situation as an early indicator of what experts predict could be a severe wildfire season across the West.

Fire officials expect containment efforts to continue through Friday. Residents are urged to monitor the RivCoReady emergency alert system for updates. This is a developing story.