Jurupa Valley Pyrite Fire forces evacuations, grows to 200 acres with zero containment

A brush fire ignited in Jurupa Valley Friday evening, September 5, prompting immediate evacuation orders as flames rapidly spread across the area. The Pyrite Fire began around 5:20 p.m. near Pyrite Street and Granite Hill Drive, according to Cal Fire officials.

Fire officials initially estimated the blaze at 15 acres, describing it as burning in "light flashy fuels." The fire's rapid growth necessitated expanded evacuation orders as conditions deteriorated throughout the evening.

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Evacuation orders expanded as fire threatens Fontana area

San Bernardino County Fire Captain Shawn Millerick reported the blaze was making a push toward Fontana. Local authorities implemented road closures, with Sierra Avenue shut down from Jurupa Avenue to Armstrong Road according to Fontana police.

Fontana police addressed residents via social media, stating: "At this time, Fontana residents are not impacted, but smoke may still be visible throughout the region."

Evacuation areas affected by the Jurupa Valley fire continue to be monitored as the situation develops.

Fire grows to 200 acres with zero per cent containment

By 9 p.m. Friday, Cal Fire reported the Pyrite Fire had expanded to an estimated 200 acres with zero per cent containment. The rapid expansion from the initial 15-acre estimate demonstrates the challenging conditions firefighters faced.

Emergency crews deployed helicopters for water drops on the Jurupa Valley brush fire. Firefighting efforts also included Phos-Chek flame retardant drops to slow the fire's advancement toward populated areas.

Road closures and safety measures implemented

Transportation impacts from the Pyrite Fire included the closure of Sierra Avenue between Jurupa Avenue and Armstrong Road. Fontana police coordinated with fire officials to manage traffic flow and ensure public safety during evacuation procedures.

The proximity of the brush fire to residential areas in both Jurupa Valley and Fontana prompted heightened emergency response protocols.

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Fire cause under investigation

The cause of the Pyrite Fire remains under investigation, with no preliminary determination released by Cal Fire officials. The rapid spread of the Jurupa Valley blaze through light flashy fuels contributed to the challenging suppression efforts.

Firefighting operations continue as crews work to establish containment lines around the 200-acre perimeter. Additional resources have been deployed to prevent further expansion toward Fontana and other neighboring communities.