A wildfire, dubbed the Volcano Fire, broke out Tuesday afternoon near the La Cresta community in unincorporated Murrieta, California, quickly consuming 75 acres and forcing residents to evacuate. The fire ignited around 2:52 p.m. near Via Volcano and Tenaja Road and was 0% contained as of Tuesday afternoon, according to CAL FIRE. The cause of the blaze is currently under investigation.
Over 125 firefighters from across the state were deployed to combat the flames. They were supported by 19 fire engines, three helicopters, two bulldozers, four hand crews, and multiple air tankers dropping retardant. Authorities closed Tenaja Road between Avocado Mesa and Avenida La Cresta, as well as Los Gatos Road at Carancho Road, to facilitate the emergency response and prevent the fire's spread.
Residents ordered to leave their homes were directed to seek shelter at Chaparral High School in Temecula, which is also accommodating pets. Large animals were being sheltered at the Murrieta Equestrian Center. Officials urged the public to avoid the area to ensure emergency crews could operate unimpeded and evacuation routes remained clear.