A fast-moving grass fire fueled by strong winds scorched through multiple structures in Sacramento on Sunday afternoon, destroying at least 11 vehicles and threatening nearby residential and religious buildings.
The blaze reportedly erupted shortly before 2:40 p.m. near the intersection of 47th Avenue and Steiner Drive, igniting on private land overgrown with tall vegetation. Within minutes, the fire was driven southward by gusting winds, expanding rapidly across an estimated 10 acres.
According to the Sacramento Fire Department, flames engulfed a number of vehicles in a nearby parking area, melting several of them beyond recognition. The fire also came dangerously close to a local apartment complex and an occupied church, prompting a swift and coordinated emergency response.
Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene, with intense heat visibly warping metal and consuming cars. “We saw the vehicles just melting,” one resident told local media outlets.
Fire crews managed to contain and extinguish the blaze by around 3:30 p.m., preventing damage to the surrounding structures. No injuries were reported.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities have not ruled out human activity or natural ignition sources, and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
