URGENT UPDATE: A rapidly spreading vegetation fire, known as the Rosa Fire, has engulfed 1,200 acres in Riverside County as of Monday night, prompting immediate evacuation orders for several nearby communities. The fire ignited around 12:30 p.m. on Highway 74, east of the Santa Rosa Truck Trail, situated between Palm Desert and Anza.
As of late Monday, the fire is burning at a moderate rate and remains 0% contained. Authorities report that 300 firefighting personnel have been deployed to the scene, utilizing 49 engines, five dozers, four water tenders, and two helicopters to combat the flames.
Evacuation orders have been officially issued for households in the communities of Ribbonwood, Pinyon Pines, and Alpine Village. Residents in Pinyon Crest are under evacuation warnings. Care and reception centers have been established at the Anza Community Center and the Palm Desert Community Center, while animal evacuation centers are open at the San Jacinto Animal Shelter and Coachella Valley Animal Campus.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued an air quality advisory for the Coachella Valley and parts of the Santa Clarita Valley, due to smoke from the Rosa Fire and other ongoing incidents, including the 72,460-acre Gifford Fire in the Los Padres National Forest and the 348-acre Gold Fire in the San Bernardino National Forest. Residents are advised to avoid or limit outdoor activities.
The situation remains critical as firefighters work tirelessly to contain the blaze. Officials urge all residents in affected areas to stay informed and adhere to evacuation orders. Updates will continue to be released as this story develops.
