Joshua Tree receives nearly three million visitors a year who fan across its dual regions the more arid and remote Colorado Desert, to the east, and the higher-elevation and more heavily developed Mojave Desert, to the west.
Vegetation fire near Salton Sea Recreation Area scorches 20 acres
A vegetation fire broke out on Wednesday afternoon near Mecca and quickly charred 20 acres, prompting a request for Cal Fire air support. Cal Fire reported 0% containment about 6 p.m.
The blaze was reported about 3:30 p.m. near Parkside Drive, which leads to the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, according to the Riverside County Fire Department. While the fire was burning at a slow rate initially, the department said that by 4 p.m., it began to increase in size.
Thirteen engine crews were sent to the location, and two Cal Fire air tankers were summoned to make runs on the brush fire. A fire official said the request was rare given the location of the blazes.
Vegetation fire near Salton Sea State Recreation Area in Mecca grows to 20 acres kesq.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from kesq.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.