Highland Fire fully contained, evacuation warnings lifted

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Highland Fire burns nearly 2,500 acres

The Highland Fire has forced evacuations in Riverside County. So far the fire has burned nearly 2,500 acres but is at 15% containment. Full containment is expected by Nov. 8.

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Calif. - Crews continue to battle a fire that ignited in Riverside County amid warm and dry conditions and howling Santa Ana winds.

The blaze, which officials dubbed the "Highland Fire," broke out Monday afternoon in the Aguanga area near the intersection of Highlands and Aguanga Ranchos roads. The area is located about 20 miles east of Temecula, near the San Diego County line.

The latest update provided by fire officials on Sunday, Nov. 5 said the fire had been fully contained after burning 2,487 acres. Additionally, as of 8 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 6, the evacuation warning for the fire perimeter had been lifted.

All told, thirteen structures were been destroyed and another three were damaged by the Highland Fire.

Resident Matthew Tyler said his home was saved, but his neighbors weren’t so lucky.

"It’s just devastating when you see what’s going on," he said. "I just feel bad for these people."

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