Nineteen acres have burned in a wildfire, named the Madera Fire. It was reported at approximately 10:10 a.m. near Anza Road and State Route 79, close to the Vail Lake area in Temecula. It has been reported that up to 700 acres are in danger.
According to the California Highway Patrol, smoke and fire were first observed on the left-hand side of the roadway. Deputies with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office requested a hard closure of SR-79 between Pauba Road and the Vail Lake Resort entrance. Cal Fire units, including RV LL, were dispatched to the scene, and closure operations began shortly after 10:25 a.m.
A CHP officer at 10:30 a.m. reported heavy smoke visible in the area, advising units to proceed with caution near the R8 junction. Units remained on scene as of the latest update.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area due to emergency response and potential hazards.
