A wildfire that sparked just east of the Mountain Center and Apple Canyon areas in California on Monday, July 15 has already blazed through 14,200 acres and has destroyed over two dozen structures in the vicinity.
According to the most recent update from InciWeb, the Mountain Fire was first reported on Monday at approximately 1:45 p.m. Officials are still investigating the cause of the blaze as thousands of fire personnel battle the fire, which is burning in mostly steep and rugged terrain. The fire is spreading through the southern portion of the San Jacinto wilderness along the Desert Divide and in the Apple Canyon and Bonita Vista areas.
As of Wednesday morning, the fire has destroyed three mobile homes, three residences, and sustained damage to an additional residence in Bonita Vista. In Pine Springs, one commercial building, a workshop, a garage and a cabin were destroyed. Although no damages have been reported in Zen Mountain Center as of yet, a total of 11 outbuildings and approximately four to six vehicles were destroyed in the surrounding areas.
"It is important to note that while homes and buildings were destroyed or damaged, firefighters were able to defend and save a large number of homes," officials said.
There are currently 2,241 firefighters battling the Mountain Fire. They are utilizing 98 fire engines, 15 helicopters, 10 flexed wing aircraft including a DC-10, 73 hand crews, six water tenders and 10 dozers. The fire is currently at 10 percent containment.
Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for Andreas Canyon Club, which is made up of 24 homes south of Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs. Two evacuation centers have been set up for residents forced from their homes. They are located at Hemet High School in Hemet, Calif. and Hamilton High School In Anza. The center at Hamilton High School is accepting small animals as well.
There are currently no road closures in effect. However, the Pacific Crest Trail is closed from Highway 74 north to Saddle Junction, and all trains connecting to the Pacific Crest Trails are also closed. These include the South Ridge Trail, Carumba Trail, Spitler Peak Trail, Forbes Trail and Cedar Springs.
All groups and individuals with overnight or advance day-use permits into the San Jacinto Wildnerness are advised to call the San Jacinto Ranger Station at (909) 382-2921 before embarking on any trips.
Check back with us for the most current information on the wildfire as more updates become available.
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