Fast-Moving Fire Burns 110 Acres Near Temecula

TEMECULA, CA — Forward progress on a wildfire in Anza was stopped after it burned at least 110 acres on Wednesday afternoon, a CalFire spokesman told Patch.

Evacuation warnings were issued for properties scattered south of Benton Way.

The fire, reported at 1:02 p.m., was initially reported to have burned 2 acres near Highway 371 and Bahrman Road, but the "critical" fire is spreading quickly. About 10 minutes later, the fire scorched 2 more acres due to winds picking up in the area, CalFire told Patch.

The agency said that multiple engine crews were sent to the location and encountered flames moving at a moderate rate to the northeast, approaching outbuildings and homes on the north side of the highway.

Four Cal Fire air tankers and two water-dropping helicopters initiated runs on the brusher minutes later, immediately slowing its advance.

The fire's forward rate of spread was quelled at 2:25 p.m., after which all Cal Fire aircraft began clearing the area, according to officials at the scene.

This is a breaking news story. Refresh the page for updates. City News Service contributed to this report.