Pyrite Fire Scorches 400 Acres, 5% Contained; Evacuations Remain in Effect

Lead A fast-moving brush fire near Jurupa Valley had burned 400 acres and was 5% contained by early Saturday, prompting mandatory evacuations and warnings for multiple zones.

Nut Graf Dubbed the Pyrite Fire, the blaze ignited Friday at 5:19 p.m. along Pyrite Street and Granite Hill Drive and raced through dry “flashy fuels,” threatening homes north of the 60 Freeway. Continued dry conditions and steep terrain have challenged suppression efforts, underscoring the fire’s ongoing risk to nearby communities.

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Evacuation Orders and Warnings

  • Mandatory evacuations remain in force for zones JUR-0017, JUR-0018, JUR-0019 and JUR-0031.
  • Evacuation warnings cover zones JUR-0020, JUR-0034 and JUR-0036 to allow time for residents with pets and livestock to relocate.
  • A care and reception center is open at Jurupa Valley High School (10551 Bellegrave Avenue), with animal sheltering at 6851 Van Buren Boulevard.

Firefighting Resources Deployed

  • Personnel: 297 firefighters
  • Air support: 2 helicopters and multiple air tankers
  • Ground equipment: 40 engines, 2 water tenders and 8 hand crews
  • Additional assets: 15 support units and reinforcements from throughout the state.

Impact and Response Road closures include Sierra Avenue between Jurupa Avenue and Armstrong Road as authorities coordinate traffic and ensure access for emergency vehicles. No injuries or structural damage have been reported to date. Residents are urged to stay informed via official CAL FIRE and Riverside County alerts.

Cause Under Investigation Cal FIRE Riverside Unit has yet to determine the fire’s origin. Investigators are examining the ignition point and fuel conditions to prevent future outbreaks.

Authorities warn that warm temperatures and low humidity will persist through the weekend, potentially hampering containment efforts. Fire crews continue constructing control lines and conducting aerial water and retardant drops to protect residential areas and critical infrastructure.