BREAKING: A rapidly spreading vegetation fire, named the Rosa Fire, has engulfed 1,200 acres in Riverside County as of Monday evening, prompting urgent evacuation orders for several rural communities. The blaze ignited around 12:30 p.m. on October 2, 2023, along Highway 74 east of the Santa Rosa Truck Trail, situated between Palm Desert and Anza, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
As flames continue to rage unchecked, over 300 firefighting personnel have been deployed to combat the fire, which is currently 0% contained. Evacuation orders are now in effect for residents in and around the communities of Ribbonwood, Pinyon Pines, and Alpine Village. Additionally, evacuation warnings have been issued for Pinyon Crest.
Care and reception facilities have been established at the Anza Community Center and the Palm Desert Community Center to assist displaced residents. For those needing to evacuate pets, animal shelters at the San Jacinto Animal Shelter and Coachella Valley Animal Campus are now operational.
Firefighting efforts are being bolstered by a robust fleet, including 49 engines, 5 dozers, 4 water tenders, and 2 helicopters, as reported by Cal Fire. The South Coast Air Quality Management District has also issued an air quality advisory affecting the Coachella Valley and parts of the Santa Clarita Valley, cautioning residents to limit outdoor activities due to smoke from the Rosa Fire, as well as from other significant fires, including the 72,460-acre Gifford Fire in the Los Padres National Forest and the 348-acre Gold Fire in the San Bernardino National Forest.
Residents are urged to stay informed and heed all evacuation orders. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and updates will be provided as they become available. For those in the affected areas, immediate action is critical to ensure safety.
