A brush fire broke out in Jurupa Valley on Tuesday, January 21, as strong Santa Ana winds persisted across Southern California. Known as the “Clay Fire,” it ignited along the Santa Ana River Bottom near Pedley Road and Van Buren Boulevard around 5 p.m.
The fire burned just under 40 acres but was 40% contained by late Tuesday night. Cal Fire confirmed that forward progress of the flames had been halted, and all evacuation warnings issued during the incident have since been lifted.
Temporary evacuation warnings were issued earlier for the area south of Limonite Avenue, between Van Buren Boulevard and Beach Street. However, these warnings have now expired, and no evacuation orders remain in place. The cause of the fire is under investigation, as crews continue to monitor the area to ensure there are no further flare-ups.
Residents are encouraged to remain cautious, as Santa Ana winds can quickly create favorable conditions for new fires. Updates on future incidents will be provided by Cal Fire and local authorities.
Los Angeles is continuing to grapple with the toxic aftermath of wildfires that devastated areas including Pacific Palisades and Altadena, destroying over 15,000 structures and releasing dangerous pollutants into the air. Scientists report that the burning of homes, cars, and infrastructure has produced hazardous levels of toxins, including lead and chlorine.
According to the New York Times, airborne lead levels reached 100 times the average, even miles from the fire sites, while chlorine levels spiked to 40 times their usual concentration. These chemicals are byproducts of melted plastics, burned paint, and other urban materials, underscoring the unique hazards of urban wildfires.
“These fires are no longer just about burning trees and grass,” said Haroula Baliaka, a Ph.D. candidate in atmospheric chemistry at the California Institute of Technology. “They are urban wildfires, fueled by the very materials that make up our homes and cities.”
