A voluntary evacuation order went out Monday in Corona for residents who live along fire-ravaged slopes that could be exposed to significant flooding when heavy rains reach the area Monday evening.
According to city officials, about 150 homes are located in the hazard zone, encompassing Bulrush Circle, Canyon Crest Drive, Diamond View Street, Elderberry Circle, Hidden Hills Way, Oakridge Drive, Sageleaf Circle, Saltbush Circle, San Alameda Road, San Ponte Road, San Sebastian Circle, San Viscaya Circle, Star Canyon Circle and Wilderness Drive.
All the properties are situated on the perimeter of the Cleveland National Forest, at the extreme southwest end of the city, where the Canyon Fire broke out in September, blackening 2,600 acres before it was contained. It was followed two weeks later by Canyon Fire 2, which mainly impacted Anaheim Hills in Orange County.
According to Corona Fire Department officials, the hillsides stripped bare by the original blaze are at risk of heavy storm runoff, and the houses surrounding the slopes could be exposed to damaging floods.
Road blocks have been established at entrances to most of the streets, and residents will be required overnight to present identification to prove that they belong there, officials said.
Voluntary evacuations are in effect until Tuesday, and residents who elect to honor the evacuation will be offered temporary shelter by the Red Cross if they’re unable to find a motel or other suitable alternative lodging, according to the city.
More information is available at www.Coronaca.gov/stormwatch.
–City News Service