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Electrical panel blamed for starting the Nixon Fire
A property burns during the Nixon Fire with evacuation orders in the area on July 29, 2024 near Aguanga.
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Mario Tama
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Getty Images
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Topline:
Cal Fire Riverside announced Friday that the Nixon Fire burning in Aguanga was caused by a privately owned electrical panel.
What we know: The Nixon Fire began a week ago on July 29 and has burned more than 5,200 acres. On Friday, Cal Fire Law Enforcement concluded that the fire was human caused. “CAL FIRE Peace Officers, after an origin and cause investigation, determined that the cause of the fire was electrical and caused by a privately owned electrical panel,” Cal Fire Riverside said in a statement.
What’s the latest on the fire: The fire is more than 20% contained with 1,047 personnel actively working to put it out. So far, four structures have been destroyed. Officials caution it could be more as they continue to assess damage.
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The context: Multiple heatwaves dried out the chaparral that the fire's burning through. Hilly terrain can make it difficult for firefighters to establish containment lines. Expect fires like this to only get worse when the Santa Ana's arrive in September.
Evacuations: The evacuation center is located at Temecula Valley High School at 31555 Rancho Vista Road. On-site animal services are available. You can find more information and other updates through Cal Fire Riverside.
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