Santa Ana Winds Fuel Brush Fires in Riverside County, Prompting Evacuations
A fast-moving brush fire, driven by Santa Ana winds, erupted near Moreno Valley in Riverside County, California, on April 3, 2026. The fire, known as the Springs fire, quickly spread to 1,500 acres, prompting mandatory evacuations in the area. The fire began in the 15900 block of Gilman Springs Road and rapidly expanded due to the presence of 'flashy fuel'—dry vegetation that ignites easily. Fire officials have deployed significant resources, including air tankers, fire engines, helicopters, and bulldozers, to combat the blaze. In addition to the Springs fire, another fire, the Crown fire, broke out in Los Angeles County, burning 280 acres and also leading to evacuations. The fires mark the first major incidents in Southern California following a winter of heavy rain and heat.