Falls Fire Continues to Spread Toward Lake Elsinore

Smoke from the Falls Fire near Lake Elsinore obscures the setting sun to the west of Menifee tonight.

A fast-burning wildfire continues to move through the Cleveland National Forest and toward Lake Elsinore tonight, forcing evacuation of three communities and endangering homes.

The Falls Fire has covered more than 1,200 acres, according to U.S. Forest Service officials, with no estimate regarding containment. More than 265 firefighting personnel are battling the blaze and evacuation orders have been given for Lakeland Village, Rancho Capistrano and Decker Canyon.

According to the USFS, the evacuation perimeter runs from Grand Avenue and Ortega Highway to Grand and Corydon. Ortega Highway is closed to non-residents.

The fire was reported at about 10 a.m. today. Cause of the fire is under investigation.

An evacuation center has been set up at Lakeside High School in Lake Elsinore. No injuries have been reported.