Massive Airport Fire in OC’s Trabuco Canyon Grows to 5,432 Acres, Spreading Evacuation Warnings to Riverside County
A brush fire ignited near the site of a radio-controlled flying club in Trabuco Canyon, Orange County, has rapidly grown to 5,432 acres by late Monday, September 9.
Officials have identified the fire as unintentional, caused by heavy equipment used by an Orange County public works crew.
This fire, now known as the Airport Fire, has prompted evacuation orders and warnings across the region, with new alerts extending to Riverside County.
The blaze, which began around 1 p.m. along the 32200 block of Trabuco Creek Road, saw rapid growth in size, initially starting as a half-acre vegetation fire but quickly spreading due to prevailing winds and dry conditions.
Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) Deputy Chief TJ McGovern confirmed the early response teams immediately requested additional resources from neighboring counties, realizing the potential of the fire to become a major incident.
Evacuation Orders and Expanding Warnings
By 9:30 p.m., the fire had consumed 5,432 acres and remained uncontained, prompting urgent evacuation warnings for communities such as Rancho Santa Margarita.
While firefighters managed to steer the fire away from certain neighborhoods, new evacuation warnings were issued for parts of Riverside County, stretching into the Santa Ana Mountains and approaching the 15 Freeway.
Residents near Rose Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon Road, and Robinson Ranch Road were ordered to evacuate as a precautionary measure.
O’Neill Regional Park campgrounds were also evacuated, and some local schools, such as Robinson and Trabuco elementary schools, canceled classes on Tuesday due to the ongoing threat from the Airport Fire.
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Cause of the Airport Fire and Ongoing Investigation
At a Monday night press conference, McGovern revealed that the fire was caused by public works crews working in the area early that morning.
The team, responsible for placing boulders along Trabuco Creek Road, saw smoke emerging from the equipment’s loader basket, leading to the outbreak of flames.
The workers used multiple fire extinguishers in an attempt to quell the fire before calling 911.
“The fire is classified as unintentional. The cause of the fire was a spark from heavy equipment,” McGovern stated, assuring that authorities are investigating the incident further.
Firefighting Efforts and Community Response
The combined efforts of engine strike teams, hand crews, helicopters, and fixed-wing aircraft were instrumental in preventing the fire from causing damage to any structures.
Firefighters utilized natural ridges as buffer zones to protect neighborhoods like Robinson Ranch, while Santiago Peak, home to vital infrastructure like radio and TV towers, was defended by aircraft dropping fire retardant.
Residents throughout Orange County and neighboring communities gathered to watch the evolving situation.
Lizeth Juarez, a resident of Lake Forest, described the devastating visuals, noting the flames crawling up the hills.
Local authorities, including Orange County Assistant Sheriff John McCulloch, reminded residents to stay prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice, emphasizing that the situation can change rapidly.
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Evacuation Shelters and Road Closures
Evacuation shelters were established for residents forced to leave their homes. One reception center was set up at the Rancho Santa Margarita Bell Tour Regional Community Center.
Additionally, shelters for large animals were opened at the Orange County Fair Grounds in Costa Mesa.
Several key roads, including Plano Trabuco Road, Santa Margarita Parkway, and parts of Santiago Canyon Road, were closed to ensure public safety and provide a path for emergency vehicles.
Firefighting Continues with Caution
Despite the immense size of the fire, officials remained cautiously optimistic about some level of containment by Tuesday morning.
Two firefighters suffered heat-related injuries and were treated at a nearby hospital. Additionally, a resident was hospitalized for smoke inhalation.
Authorities continue to urge residents to heed evacuation warnings and prepare for sudden changes in the fire’s direction.
The OCFA’s new Firehawk helicopters have played a pivotal role in combatting the blaze, with hopes that improved weather conditions will aid in containment efforts.
Looking Ahead
As of now, firefighters remain on high alert, working tirelessly to protect both lives and property. McGovern expressed optimism that the fire would show signs of containment soon, but with no firm estimates.
“By the morning, I would anticipate we will have a small percentage of containment,” McGovern stated, offering a glimmer of hope to residents.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of the community while authorities continue to battle this devastating wildfire.