Wolf Fire Rages Over 1,100 Acres in Riverside; Evacuations Ordered
A fast-moving wildfire, dubbed the Wolf Fire, ignited near Old Banning–Idyllwild Road and Wolfskill Truck Trail in Riverside County just after 3 p.m. on Sunday. As of last night, it has scorched over 1,100 acres, prompting evacuation orders and road closures near Banning. Approximately 750 residents have been asked to evacuate or stay alert. Cal Fire officials are reporting just 10% containment so far.
Firefighting Efforts
Nearly 300 firefighters are on the ground, supported by four night-flying helicopters. Fire officials warn their full containment strategy isn’t clear until daylight, when aerial tankers can safely join the fight.
Evacuations & Road Closures
- Evacuation centers are open at Hemet High School, and a separate animal shelter is set up in San Jacinto.
- Mandatory evacuations are in effect for homes and campsites along evacuation routes; roads in and out of Banning are now restricted.
The Wolf Fire is one of three wildfires flaring across the county Sunday. These include:
- A 70-acre blaze near Aguanga, now about 50% contained
- A vegetation fire near Riverside city that burned 80+ acres, prompting temporary evacuations
Neighboring San Bernardino County saw the Lake Fire scorch over 400 acres, triggering its own evacuation orders.
Amy Ashcraft, a nearby resident, described how the smoke blanketed her neighborhood: “All of a sudden, it just got worse.” She and others began soaking down roofs before evacuation orders were issued.
Why This Matters
- Rapid spread: In just hours, flames consumed over 1,100 acres, showing how quickly conditions can escalate.
- Preparedness: The setup of evacuation zones and shelters highlights the importance of prompt emergency response.
- Wider regional threat: Multiple simultaneous fires underscore the vulnerability of Southern California during high-risk seasons.
