Cause of Vegetation Fire Near Homes Still Unclear

Bay City News—Authorities are still investigating the cause of a vegetation fire that briefly threatened several homes in Orinda on Wednesday afternoon.

The fire was reported around 3:30 p.m. in a wooded area near Moraga Way and Hall Drive, Moraga-Orinda Fire Division Chief Stephen Healy said.

Fire crews arrived to find trees and dry grass burning near several homes on Casa Reale, Healy said. 

All five of the department's engines, as well as a water tender and ambulance, were dispatched to the scene. 

Firefighters aggressively attacked the blaze, getting it under control in about 24 minutes, Healy said. No injuries were reported. 

Crews remained at the scene for several hours putting out hot spots. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though fire officials believe dry conditions likely contributed to the blaze. 

Moraga-Orinda fire officials reminded residents to be especially cautious. "Due to extremely dry conditions and low humidity, any ignition may result in a significant fire that could threaten homes and property," Fire Chief Randall Bradley said.