Some evacuation orders were lifted for residents who live near the area where the Orange County Airport Fire continues to burn.
The Airport Fire, which was reported in Trabuco Canyon Monday afternoon, expanded to burn more than 23,494 acres with 8% containment, according to Cal Fire.
Firefighters were hopeful Wednesday the firefight would take a turn for the positive, but as the wind phenomenon called the Elsinore effect could erratically force wind shifts, authorities continued to urge neighbors to follow the evacuation orders and warnings.
Mandatory evacuation orders for the Robinson Ranch community were downgraded to voluntary evacuation warnings, the OCFA said. Road closures remain in effect and resident-only access is permitted for Plano Trabuco Road at Joshua Drive and Plano Trabuco Road at Robinson Ranch Road.
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"Residents are now permitted to return to their homes, but must provide proof of residency upon entry. It is imperative that residents remain vigilant and be prepared if conditions change," OCFA said.
The fire started in the Trabuco Canyon area of Orange County but quickly spread to Riverside County.
Over 700 fire personnel continue battling the flames that have damaged seven structures and destroyed two others. At least 12 injuries have been reported due to the Airport Fire.
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For a full list of evacuation orders, warnings, road closures and shelter information visit the Cal Fire website.
Gov. Newsom, who visited Southern California Wednesday, issued a state of emergency in Orange and Riverside counties as the wildfire fire grew.
The fire crews and responding agencies were granted more access to fire-suppressing resources as Gov. Gavin Newsom secured a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Cal Fire officials said.
Newsom had proclaimed a state of emergency for San Bernardino County for the Line Fire on Monday.
