Residents near Lake Elsinore evacuated as Macy Fire burns

On Thursday afternoon, the Macy Fire broke out west of Lake Elsinore, growing to 145 acres and prompting evacuations as it threatened a number of homes in the area. As of Friday morning it was 15% contained and one structure had been destroyed.

The Macy Fire is burning right next to a number of Lake Elsinore neighborhoods on July 26, 2024.

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California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

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It's an all hands on deck type of fire given its proximity to homes — 200 firefighters have been assigned, along with four air tankers and two helicopters. The steep terrain can make it difficult for firefighters to draw and hold containment lines, so air resources can help.

It's unclear what started the blaze.

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Extreme heat waves have set the stage for extreme fire behavior throughout the state, as vegetation across much of California has reached critical levels. Meaning, if it catches on fire it could burn quite easily. This is going to be the norm until the rainy season shows up.

For the most up to date evacuation orders, visit Riverside County Fire's website.

An evacuation center has been established at Elsinore High School.

Highway 74 is closed from Grand Avenue to the Orange County line. Grand Avenue is also closed from Machado to Maiden Lane.

This is a developing story and will be updated as the fire develops.