Fire rages in the mountain hills south of Cabazon

Currently 64°F in Hemet, California, USA

Thursday, April 25, 2024 2:56 PM PDT

Posted October 26, 2006, 10:23 AM.

The fire, now called the 'Esperanza' fire, broke out sometime shortly after midnight on October 26th south of Cabazon and West of Palm Springs. According the the California Department of Forestry the fire has already burned 8000+ acres (as of 3:00pm) and is growing rapidly due to the Santa Ana wind conditions throughout the area. 4 firefighters have lost their lives to the fire so far and numerous homes have also been lost as firefighters fight to contain the flames before they reach the forested areas of the mountain. Mandatory evacutations have been called for residents of Twin Pines, Poppet Flats and Wonder View so far. Evacuation centers have been opened at Hemet High School and at the Beaumont Community Center. Current information on this fire can be obtained at: Esperanza Fire Incident Report

Update: As of 3:00pm Friday, October 27th, the Esperanza fire has now burned over 25,000 acres and is still only 5% contained. There have been 4 fatalities to fire fighters with one more still listed in critical condition. Numerous structures and injuries have been reported as the fire crews continue to fight the Santa Ana driven fire. The cause of the fire has been classified as 'Arson' and authorities ask that any information leading to the capture of those that started this fire be passed on to the sheriffs department as soon as possible.

Hemet