"Highland Fire: Massive Blaze Forces Thousands to Evacuate and Destroys Structures"

The Highland fire in Riverside County, California, has grown to 2,487 acres with 10% containment, destroying three structures and damaging six others. Approximately 4,000 people are under mandatory evacuation orders, with over 1,100 homes still evacuated. The fire is being battled by over 1,100 firefighters, but with dry conditions and strong Santa Ana winds forecasted, containment efforts are challenging. The fire is burning in an area that recently experienced heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Hilary, which may have contributed to the growth of new grasses that subsequently dried out and fueled the fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.