Firefighters in Riverside County are still battling the Volcano Fire near Murrieta. The blaze started on 7 July 2026 and leapt across dry slopes. It burned through parts of the La Cresta area and prompted many locals to escape their homes. Authorities estimate about 75 acres are still aflame.
Fire crews pressed on into the night. Aircraft released water on the flames while ground crews built firebreaks. Roads around the fire stayed blocked as crews tried to slow the fire’s spread. The Los Angeles Times and CBS News have provided updates on the operation.