California fire: Blaze spreads near Coachella music festival
A large fire is quickly spreading near the Coachella music festival in California.
Firefighters have said the blaze, currently six miles from the festival, is 10 per cent contained.
More than 100 firefighters are battling the blaze – which was first reported at 4.30am local time.
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said the 15 acre “vegetation fire” began in an area of palm trees off Tyler Street and Vista Del Sur, on the east side of the city of Coachella.
The Riverside County Fire said the blaze – which has damaged power lines - had the potential to grow to 50 acres.
#TylerFire [UPDATE] Fire is now 10 acres with no containment. Photos: CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department pic.twitter.com/d3pqhN17vK
— CAL FIRE Riverside (@CALFIRERRU) April 15, 2018
The public is being asked to avoid the area until firefighters are able to put out the fire.
There are no reports of any injuries.
Motorists were urged to obey road closures while fire engines and equipment remained deployed.
Firefighters are battling a 15 acre fire off Tyler Street and Vista Del Sur, Coachella, in the City of Coachella (Riverside County). #TylerFire is 10% contained. https://t.co/gtXQ9E99mP pic.twitter.com/kBh5mTYG3S
— CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) April 15, 2018
Resources are expected to remain at the scene for the duration of the day.
Investigators have determined the fire to be human-caused but remains under investigation.
The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, which started on Friday, is underway in nearby Indio.
Tens of thousands of fans have camped out at the site for the festival – which included a headline performance from Beyonce.
