Wildfire — San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys - the Inland Empire, California

2019-10-31 · San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys - the Inland Empire, California

Event narrative

Hillside fire erupted at 140 am along Highway 18. This wildfire destroyed 3 homes and damage 6 others. Up to 1300 persons were evacuated. Neighbors went door to door at 2 am to wake up people. The fire consumed about 250 acres near Muscoy in San Bernardino. The fire burned downhill due to 40-50 mph wind gusts (Santa Ana) in lower Waterman Canyon. This wildfire rescue made the A&E Network Rescue series as #1 in 2019. 1 fire fighter was hospitalized for smoke inhalation.

Wider weather episode

High pressure over the Great Basin brought high winds and single digit relative humidity to southern California. Gusty Santa Ana winds were reported in the mountains and passes, with peak gusts topping out 60-70 mph. The windiest location was Fremont Canyon at 73 mph. A few small wildfires broke out across the region. The Water Fire was the smallest, but most destructive fire during this time period, destroying 3 structures and 2 vehicles. The 46 Fire charred 300 acres and prompted the evacuations of approximately 3600 residents, with no structures destroyed or injuries reported.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 863234. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.