A brush fire in a dry creek bed in Pedley blackened nearly two acres Thursday before firefighters gained the upper hand.
The brusher was reported at 12:33 p.m. in the area of Felspar and 56th streets, where the Pyrite channel connects to the Santa Ana River bottom, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.
Fire Capt. Laura Germany said around 50 firefighters spent an hour corralling the fire, which burned several power poles but remained clear of any structures. No injuries were reported.
The area is apparently occupied by squatters, and sheriff's deputies were called in to help evacuate them.
Deputies also closed access to streets leading into the area. Germany said crews were expected to finish up late Thursday afternoon.
The cause of the fire was under investigation.
Pedley is located about 100 miles east of Indio.
