Firefighters have largely contained a fire, dubbed the Iron Fire, after the vegetation blaze burned approximately 635 acres in Moreno Valley on Saturday, threatening homes, and forcing the temporary closure of State Route 60.
The fire broke out at approximately 2 p.m. near Theodore Street and Eucalyptus Avenue. Initial reports indicated 3 to 4 acres were burning uphill at a moderate rate of spread, with structures expected to be threatened within about 15 minutes.
As the fire rapidly expanded toward State Route 60, incident commanders requested additional ground and air resources. Firefighters from the CAL FIRE Riverside Unit were joined by crews from the Hemet, Riverside City, and Corona fire departments in an aggressive attack on the blaze.
The California Highway Patrol closed the westbound State Route 60 on-ramp at Gilman Springs Road as flames approached the freeway. The westbound lanes were later shut down from Interstate 10 while firefighters worked to contain the advancing fire.
Fire officials reported forward progress was stopped at approximately 600 acres Saturday evening. The westbound lanes of State Route 60 reopened around 8 p.m. after firefighters secured the immediate threat to the roadway.
As of the latest update, the Iron Fire has burned 635 acres and is 90% contained.
No civilian or firefighter injuries have been reported, and officials have not announced any structures damaged or destroyed.
Numerous firefighting air tankers from across California supported suppression efforts as conditions allowed. As of the latest report, 77 personnel remained assigned to the incident, including 11 fire engines, four hand crews and three additional support resources.
Firefighters are expected to remain on scene conducting mop-up operations and strengthening containment lines until the fire is fully secured.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
