Fast-Growing Springs Fire Forces Evacuations in Riverside County

Sat Apr 04 2026 23:08:23 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

A rapidly spreading wildfire near Moreno Valley prompts evacuations and school closures as firefighters work to contain the blaze amid strong winds in Southern California.

The Springs Fire, which erupted around 11 a.m. Friday east of Moreno Valley, has quickly expanded to approximately 6.5 square miles. Due to strong winds contributing to its rapid growth and smoke spread, evacuations have been mandated in some areas and Moreno Valley College temporarily closed. Fire crews are actively fighting the blaze with support from air and ground resources as they strive for containment amid ongoing wind advisories that forecast gusts of up to 50 mph.

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (AP) — Crews are battling a smoky and fast-growing wildfire known as the Springs Fire, which ignited around 11 a.m. Friday in Riverside County. By evening, the flames had spread to about 6.5 square miles, prompting evacuation orders and the temporary closure of a local community college.

The fire is burning in a semi-populated area just east of Moreno Valley, affecting the air quality and visibility, with many residents expressing concerns about the smoke carried by strong winds.

Firefighters have responded with a wide range of resources, including helicopters, water tenders, and ground crews, to contain the blaze, which remains under investigation regarding its cause. As of the latest updates, evacuations are in effect, although the exact number of impacted households has yet to be confirmed.

Moreno Valley College shut down its main campus on Friday and Saturday, alerting students and staff via social media to leave the premises swiftly due to hazardous conditions.

California U.S. Representative Raul Ruiz strongly urged residents under evacuation orders to evacuate immediately. The National Weather Service has warned of ongoing wind advisories throughout the county, with gusts expected to reach up to 50 mph.

Public information and firefighting officials emphasize the importance of heeding evacuation orders to ensure safety as they continue to combat the flames and monitor evolving weather conditions.