Air Tankers Stop Fast-Moving Whittier Brush Fire

A fast-moving brush fire sparked a large emergency response Sunday afternoon near Colima Road and Mar Vista Street in the Whittier area.

The fire was reported at approximately 2:49 p.m. on June 22, 2026, and quickly grew in size, prompting firefighters to request a second alarm response amid concerns that nearby homes and structures could become threatened.

Los Angeles County firefighters attacked the blaze from both the ground and the air, with helicopters making repeated water drops while Cal Fire fixed-wing aircraft laid retardant along the fire’s perimeter.

Thanks to the aggressive response, crews were able to stop the forward progress of the fire at approximately 5.5 acres.

By about 4:40 p.m., firefighters reported the incident was approximately 80% contained and continued mopping up hot spots throughout the area.

Video from nearby La Habra Heights showed aircraft working over the fire zone while some homeowners activated rooftop sprinkler systems as a precaution against potential ember spread.

The fire caused significant traffic disruptions, with Colima Road remaining closed between Mar Vista Street and Camino Del Sur. The roadway serves as a major connection between Whittier and communities throughout the San Gabriel Valley.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.