A series of wildfires swept through the Western United States on July 21, 2024, destroying at least a dozen homes and causing significant damage. The cause of one such fire in Riverside, California was traced back to illegal fireworks.
The Hawarden Fire broke out in the hilly area of Riverside, a city about 60 miles east of Los Angeles. According to reports from various sources, at least six homes were destroyed and seven others were damaged by the blaze. The cost of property damage was estimated to be over $11 million.
The fire was ignited by fireworks on July 21, as reported by multiple sources including Cal Fire and Riverside Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson. Authorities are currently conducting a manhunt for the individuals responsible for setting off the explosives that sparked the wildfire.
Residents of Riverside were forced to evacuate their homes due to the sudden and rapid spread of flames. Noel Piri, one such resident, managed to rescue his dog but lost his newly remodeled house in the blaze. The Press-Enterprise reported that Piri was saddened by the loss.
The Hawarden Fire is just one of many wildfires that have been ravaging the Western United States amidst a hazardous heat wave. Other states including Oregon, Idaho, and Sacramento have also been affected by these blazes.
Despite the devastation caused by the Hawarden Fire, it serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to safety regulations during times of extreme weather conditions. The use of fireworks in such situations can have catastrophic consequences.
