27 Jul 2018 | 01:57 AM UTC
US: New California wildfire forces evacuation of 3200 people July 26
New blaze spreads quickly in southern California, forcing evacuation of 3200 people on July 26; suspected arsonist arrested
Event
A fast-moving wildfire spread quickly in Southern California's San Jacinto Mountains beginning Wednesday, July 25, and forcing the evacuation of the entire town of Idyllwild on Thursday, July 26. With the area under an extreme heat warning through Friday, July 27, the dry and hot conditions allowed the blaze to spread quickly to 3000 hectares (7500 acres). At least 700 firefighters are fighting the blaze, nicknamed the "Cranston fire," which is five percent contained as of 16:00 (local time) on July 26. California fire authorities arrested a man accused of setting the fires.
A second, smaller blaze also started nearby on July 26. The "Ribbon fire" started near the town of Pinyon Pines about 16 km (10 mi) east of the Cranston fire and spread to approximately 40 hectares (100 acres) by 15:00 on July 26. It is zero percent contained. The cause is unknown as of 18:00.
Context
Wildfires are frequent in California from May through November. A recent heatwave has brought extreme temperatures and dry winds to southern California, which will persist through the evening of July 27, has created conditions suitable for new and continued fires.
Advice
Individuals in affected areas are advised to exercise caution when traveling in areas near the wildfire, adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and monitor the situation.
