Evacuation orders issued as Springs, Crown fires burn across Riverside and LA counties

Southern Californians were on high alert Friday as two separate wildfires broke out within hours of each other, burning hundreds of acres as authorities issued evacuation orders.

The fast-moving blazes swept through brush and canyons in Riverside and Los Angeles counties, prompting evacuations and forcing authorities into rapid response mode.

In Riverside County, the Springs Fire ignited shortly after 11 a.m. along Gilman Springs Road, east of Moreno Valley, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE).

The blaze had burned more that 2,000 acres as of 2 p.m.

More than 100 personnel supported by 23 engines, helicopters, dozers and air tankers, were deployed to prevent the flames from reaching residential neighborhoods.

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Authorities issued evacuation orders for nearby homes, and Gilman Springs Road was closed between Alessandro Road and Bridge Street.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials warned that strong winds could drive further growth.

Less than two hours later, the Crown Fire broke out in Acton, located in northern Los Angeles County, near Crown Valley Road and Soledad Canyon Road, according to CAL FIRE.

The agency reported the fire had burned nearly 300 acres as of 2 p.m. as it spread through dry brush.

Evacuation orders and warnings were issued for the affected areas, and firefighting aircrafts, engines and ground crews were deployed to stop the flames from threatening homes and structures.

Authorities are actively working to establish containment lines while investigating the cause.

Fire officials urged residents in both counties to remain vigilant, adhere to evacuation instructions, and stay updated via official sources.

CAL FIRE and local fire departments continue to coordinate a full-scale response to bring both fires under control.