First Big Fire of the Season

If you look to the northeast right now you'll be able to see a big plume of smoke. That's a fire that looks like it's to the north of Jefferson St.. There's at least one helicopter dumping water on it, so hopefully it will be out soon.

5pm update: it looks like the fire is climbing up the ridge, rather than down, so that's good news. The firefighting planes are out dropping their bright orange chemicals right now. (Click photo for larger image). There's a bit about it in the Merc:

Winds were light in the afternoon, but officials anticipate they will pick up as the sun sets, Lardner said.

About 150 firefighters were battling the blaze as temperatures climbed to 100 degrees. They were aided by two helicopters and two air tankers.

According to the San Bernardino County Sun's latest update (4:45PM), the burned area is up to 250 acres and they are investigating the cause. It's pretty safe to say it wasn't lightning.

Update 7/5: According to InciWeb the Ridge Fire is now 85% contained and the fire crews are mopping up.

Tags: Yucaipa, fire