US: Emergency crews working to contain a wildfire in Riverside County, Calif., late Oct. 31

Crews are working to contain a wildfire burning in Riverside County, California, as of late Oct. 31. The Highland Fire broke out between Highland Road and Aguanga Ranchos Road, Aguanga, Oct. 30, and is approximately 890 hectares (2,200 acres) in size and 0 percent contained. High temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds are hampering firefighting efforts.

Authorities have issued evacuation orders for the following locations, affecting around 4,000 people:

• South of Sage/Golden Eagle Drive

• East of Becker Lane

• West of Boulder Vista

• North of Cottonwood Creek

• South of Highway 371

• West of Soreson

• North of County Line Road

• North of San Diego County line

• South of Highway 79

• East of Forest Route 8S07

• West of Crosley Truck Trail

Evacuation warnings are in place for areas east of Vail Lake Resort, west of Shirley Way, north of David Street, south of Pueblo Road/Exa Ely Road, west of Cahuilla Tribal Reservation Boundary, and north of County Line Road. An emergency shelter is in place at Great Oak High School in Temecula. The fire has destroyed at least three structures and damaged six others.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.