LA CRESTA, California — Firefighters are continuing efforts to contain the Volcano Fire near Murrieta after a brush fire erupted in the La Cresta area, prompting evacuation orders and warnings for nearby communities. Residents reported seeing heavy air support activity as multiple aircraft and emergency crews responded to the growing wildfire.
According to the Riverside County Fire Department, the Volcano Fire was first reported at approximately 2:50 p.m. near Via Volcano and Tenaja Road. When crews arrived, they found vegetation burning in medium brush, leading to an immediate response involving both ground crews and aerial firefighting resources.
The fire initially spread quickly, growing to an estimated 125 acres by the afternoon before officials later adjusted the confirmed size to approximately 77.7 acres as mapping efforts continued. Firefighters reported that the blaze was burning at a moderate rate of spread and continued requiring extensive resources.
Multiple air tankers, helicopters, engines, and hand crews were assigned to the incident. Officials requested additional resources, including 10 additional engines and aircraft, as firefighters worked to slow the fire’s advance and protect nearby homes and communities.
The wildfire is burning adjacent to the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve, a popular hiking and natural area. The fire’s location near protected land and residential communities has increased concerns about potential impacts as crews continue containment operations.
At approximately 4:10 p.m., mandatory evacuation orders were issued for threatened areas. By later in the evening, firefighters reported progress that allowed some evacuation orders to be reduced to warnings. As of the latest update, an evacuation order remained active for zone RVC-2146, while evacuation warnings remained in place for multiple surrounding zones, including RVC-2076, RVC-2077, RVC-2143-A, RVC-2144, RVC-2145, RVC-2147, RVC-2197, RVC-2198-A, RVC-2198-B, RVC-2243, RVC-2244, RVC-2245, RVC-2246, and RVC-2292.
An evacuation care and reception center for residents and small animals has been established at Chaparral High School. Large animal sheltering support has been made available at the Murrieta Equestrian Center and the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus.
Fire officials are urging residents in affected areas to remain alert, monitor official emergency updates, and check evacuation zone information as conditions can change rapidly. Residents are also encouraged to avoid entering fire areas so emergency crews can safely operate.
As of the latest reports, firefighters had achieved approximately 10% containment while continuing aggressive suppression efforts. The cause of the Volcano Fire remains under investigation.
The community’s thoughts remain with residents impacted by the wildfire and the firefighters working tirelessly to protect lives, homes, and surrounding areas. Further updates are expected as crews continue battling the blaze and improving containment.