Wind-Driven Fire Breaks Out Near Cajalco Road

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — A wildfire erupted this afternoon just west of Lake Mathews, quickly scorching an estimated 25 to 30 acres amid strong winds, the Riverside County Fire Department reports. The so-called Eagle Fire was first reported at 12:05 p.m. in the 20300 block of Eagle Canyon Road, near Cajalco Road.

"The fire is wind-driven... burning at a rapid rate," the fire department said in an incident report.

However, the blaze did not immediately appear to be threatening homes or other structures and by 1:30 p.m. crews stopped the forward rate of spread.

"Resources will remain on scene as they work to fully contain/control the fire," the fire department said on Twitter.

Multiple engine crews from the county and Corona Fire Department were sent to the location and encountered flames burning in a drainage canal, with 15-20 mph winds propelling the fire, according to reports from the scene.

A battalion chief immediately requested a Cal Fire water-dropping helicopter and air tankers to make runs on the brusher. Officials said the blaze had the potential to spread to 200 acres.

No evacuations were ordered.

The cause of the fire was not immediately known.

— City News Service contributed to this report