(The Center Square) – The Ranch Fire burned 4,205 acres in Southern California’s Inland Empire as of Wednesday morning.
The fire started around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday in Apple Valley in San Bernardino County, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
The blaze has destroyed at least one home, according to media reports.
Evacuations were ordered for the area from Milpas Drive to High Road, south of Highway 18, CalFire said. An evacuation shelter is at Sitting Bull Academy in Apple Valley. Large animals are being taken to the Victorville Fairgrounds in Victorville.
As of Wednesday morning, the fire, which started in an area around Bowen Ranch Road, was 10% contained, thanks to favorable winds and increased humidity overnight, CalFire reported.
Wednesday’s weather may not be as favorable for firefighters. Low humidity and increasing southerly winds, with gusts predicted to reach 32 mph Wednesday afternoon, are expected, CalFire said. The department noted similar weather is expected through Thursday and that firefighters will focus on protecting structures, strengthening containment lines and continuing mop-up efforts.
Air support continues as part of efforts to fight the blaze.
Residents near the fire should remain ready to evacuate if necessary, CalFire said. “Keep phones charged and emergency kits ready. Avoid the area, and do not fly drones, as they interfere with firefighting aircraft.”
Besides CalFire, the unified command responding to the fire includes the Apple Valley Fire Protection District, the Bureau of Land Management and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
