Santiago Fire Reaches 155-Acres; 00-Percent Contained: OCFA

IRVINE, CA — The fast moving brush fire that exploded near the 241 Tollway in Irvine on Tuesday was 80-percent contained, officials said Wednesday morning. That fire scorched a total of 155 acres before it was halted. As of Wednesday morning, all roadways are open and no structures were threatened, OCFA Capt. Steve Concialdi said.

Approximately 250 firefighters remain on the fire lines, "mopping up" hot spots, according to reports. Officials expect 100 percent containment by Thursday.

The blaze began just before 4:50 p.m. Monday near the toll road and Santiago Canyon Road, for unknown reasons.

Initially, officials were concerned that the blaze would jump Santiago Canyon Road, and firefighters worked to head it off before it reached the thoroughfare, however the wildfire never threatened the tollway. Northbound lanes were closed during the original firefight, but all lanes are open.

The fire was fueled by a great deal of dry brush, but wind wasn't much of a factor after the first day.

One firefighter was treated for a minor injury, the OCFA reported.

Santiago Canyon Fire Photo: OCSD North Patrol Photo