Massive fire destroys 40+ RVs in storage

Chaos abounded throughout Canyon Lake Wednesday afternoon as a result of a major three-alarm fire at Canyon Lake Storage where 75 firefighters from four fire departments converged to put out the blaze that destroyed over 40 RVs being stored there.

Helicopters buzzed above the city, both from the fire departments and southern California television news stations. Streets within the city were blocked and bystanders flocked to the streets to view the massive plume of black smoke rising into the sky.

The fire began from unknown origin at about 2:30 p.m. The blaze grew rapidly and CalFire called upon assistance from fire departments in Corona, Murrieta and Riverside.

Black clouds of smoke arise from Canyon Lake Storage Wednesday afternoon while cars are stuck on Loch Lomond leading up to the storage facility. The smoke could be seen from miles around. The ultra-black smoke was caused by the burning of over 40 RVs being stored at the local storage yard. Photo by John Mike Guzman.

One of the 75 firefighters working the fire was injured and was being attended to by paramedics, according to CalFire. Powerlines in the area were down and Southern California Edison was on the scene. Approximately 100 homes were temporarily without power.

A special Breathing Support Unit was on scene as were 12 overhead personnel.

CalFire reported the fire fully contained as of 5:32 p.m. Wednesday evening.

Although no homes adjacent to the storage facility were under evacuation orders, some streets were blocked temporarily to keep the area around the fire protected and to allow officials access.

Canyon Lake Storage is located within the gates of the community at 22229 Loch Lomond Dr. and provides storage primarily for RVs and boats.

The cause of the fire is currently unknown and is under investigation.