Large wildfire burning in Moreno Valley

MORENO VALLEY, Calif. (FOX 11) - Firefighters are battling a large wildfire burning in Moreno Valley Friday afternoon with over 500 acres scorched already, officials said.

Shortly after 1 p.m., CAL FIRE/Riverside County firefighters responded to a report of several spot fires along Gilman Springs -- between Highway 60 and Jack Rabbit Trail. The first arriving team located four 1-acre spot fires approximately one mile apart threatening multiple structures.

As of 2 p.m., the fire exploded to 200 acres, fire officials said. By 3 p.m., the fire stood at 500 acres and no containment.

The fire was burning at a rapid rate of spread threatening several structures including utility infrastructure in the area, said fire officials. At least one outbuilding was destroyed.

Over 200 firefighters are on scene battling the Jerry Fire along with three helicopters, five air tankers, one water tender, and one bulldozer. The U.S. Forest Service is assisting with a helitanker from the San Bernardino Air Tanker Base.

As of 6 p.m., the aggressive attack on the fire paid off and crews stopped the fire's forward rate of spread. 522 acres have burned and the fire is 20% contained.

Resources will remain on scene throughout the night and into Saturday.

Evacuation orders were in place for approximately 15 residents on Gilman Springs Road between Highway 60 and Jack Rabbit Trail. As of 6:15 p.m., all evacuation orders were lifted.

Road closures affecting the area via the Riverside County Sheriff's Department:

• Gilman Springs between Alessandro and Old Golf Course

• Gilman Springs at Sanderson

The Sheriff's Department is asking the public to use alternate routes.

A fire investigator is on scene. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.