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A lightning strike is the culprit behind Buck Fire, Cal Fire officials say
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Buck Fire burns at Sage Rd between Lewis Valley Rd and Buck Rd in the city of Aguanga, about 15 miles south of Hemet.
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Investigators have determined a lightning strike sparked the Buck Fire in Riverside County.
The brush fire broke out Tuesday afternoon at Sage Rd between Lewis Valley Rd and Buck Rd in the city of Aguanga, about 15 miles south of Hemet. So far, it’s burned 3,000 acres and it’s 15 percent contained.
“They’re going to continue to put in containment line using hand crews and hose lines, using aircraft as needed," Cal Fire spokesman Tony McHale explained how firefighters plan to attack for the rest of the day. "and just keep the fire contained to its original location and keep it from spreading.”
McHale said they're keeping an eye out on possible thunderstorm activity to the east. So far winds are cooperating.
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More than 400 firefighters are on the scene, including 50 engines, 11 airtankers and 4 bulldozers.
McHale said another firefighter has suffered minor injuries. This brings the total up to five injuries, including two other firefighters and two civilians.
About 50 homes remain under evacuations orders. The American Red Cross has put up a shelter for evacuees at the Community Recreating Center in Temecula.
Dogs, cats and other small pets can be taken to the Ramona Animal Shelter in San Jacinto; Helton Hay and Feed in Menifee is housing larger animals.
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