Mandatory evacuation orders lifted after brush fire erupts near San Jacinto

SAN JACINTO, Calif. (KABC) -- A brush fire that erupted Monday afternoon just north of San Jacinto swept over hillsides, threatening homes and agricultural operations and prompted evacuations for several hours.

The Ramona Fire was reported just after 2 p.m. in the area of the Ramona Expressway and North Warren Road, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

As of Monday evening, fire officials said the blaze had grown to 328 acres and was 20% contained. Evacuation orders and warnings were issued due to the blaze, but they were all lifted around 8:30 p.m. and residents were allowed to go to their homes.

The fire department said that multiple engine and hand crews were sent to the location and encountered flames burning along barren hillsides, propelled by southwesterly winds.

Several Cal Fire air tankers and water-dropping helicopters from nearby Hemet-Ryan Airport were summoned to make runs on the brusher.

The cause of the fire was under investigation.

City News Service contributed to this report.