Brush Fire Near Murrieta Grows to 200 Acres, Evacuation Orders Remain

Firefighters continue battling a brush fire burning in the hills west of Murrieta that has grown to 200 acres and is now 25% contained.

The fire broke out earlier this afternoon in the La Cresta area near Via Volcano and Tenaja Road, prompting a large response from Riverside County fire crews.

Evacuation orders remain in effect for some homes along Tenaja Road as firefighters work to keep the flames from threatening nearby properties. An evacuation center has been established at Chaparral High School in Temecula for residents forced to leave their homes.

Fire officials say no injuries have been reported.

Multiple ground crews and aircraft have been assigned to the incident as firefighters work to strengthen containment lines and protect surrounding communities.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Residents in the area are urged to follow all evacuation orders and monitor official updates as fire conditions continue to change.