A rapidly spreading wildfire in Trabuco Canyon has prompted mandatory evacuations of nearby residences. Known as the Airport Fire, the blaze produced a large plume of smoke that was visible across the region during the evening commute. Within a span of 7.5 hours, the fire has expanded to over 5,400 acres.
Fire officials have indicated that firefighting efforts will continue through the night.
According to the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), the fire ignited when workers from OC Public Works used heavy machinery to replace barriers intended to limit access to the area with boulders. “After placing a load of boulders, the operators began seeing smoke emitting from the loader’s basket,” stated OCFA Deputy Chief TJ McGovern during a press briefing on Monday evening. He noted that the operator and a supervisor tried to extinguish the flames with multiple fire extinguishers and additional equipment while calling 911.
Statistics show that humans, whether through deliberate actions or accidents, are responsible for 95% of wildfires in California. In the previous year alone, over 7,000 wildfires in the state were caused by people, with more than 50,000 wildfires recorded nationwide.
As of 9:30 p.m., the fire had reached 5,436 acres with 0% containment. No structures have been reported destroyed, and there have been no fatalities. However, there are three injuries that are heat-related. The cause of the fire is confirmed as a spark from heavy machinery.
Evacuation orders and warnings have been issued by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department for the following areas: Rancho Santa Margarita and Trabuco Canyon.
For those needing shelter, the temporary evacuation site is at the Lake Forest Sports Complex located at 28000 Vista Terrace in Lake Forest. A long-term shelter is available at the Bell Tower Regional Community Center at 22232 El Paseo in Rancho Santa Margarita, remaining open overnight. For large animals, a shelter is set up at 88 Fair Drive in Costa Mesa, while the Mission Viejo Animal Services Center is providing assistance to help evacuees recover their pets at Ralphs parking lot on Santa Margarita Parkway.
Road closures are currently in effect at various intersections, including Plano Trabuco and Joshua Drive, Antonio and Alas de Paz, and others.
The Airport Fire erupted around 2 p.m. in Trabuco Canyon, near Trabuco Creek Road. Firefighting resources will remain on site as efforts continue to control the blaze.