Containment of Massive Southern California Wildfire Grows

Fire crews built containment lines and patrolled for hot spots throughout the day on Wednesday to continue to keep a massive Southern California wildfire from growing.

Containment on the Rabbit Fire grew to 55% with extreme heat and low humidity forecast for the next day, according to CalFire.

The fire in Riverside County grew to 8,283 acres, with numerous evacuation orders and evacuation warnings in place.

“High temperatures, steep terrain and difficult access continue to hamper fire suppression efforts,” a CalFire advisory notes. “Hazards remain present for critical infrastructure, radio repeater towers and natural gas and petroleum pipelines.”

The fire ignited on Friday. More than 1,5789 personnel, 172 engines and seven helicopters are dedicated to the blaze. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.