Closures: Several hiking areas will close today

Several hiking areas in Riverside County will close today because of the increased fire threat posed by low moisture levels and a forecast of hot weather.

Beginning at 8 a.m. today, the following areas will be closed:

Eagle Canyon/Tin Mine (east of Corona);

Steel Peak (north of Lake Elsinore);

Bautista Canyon (southeast of Hemet);

North Mountain (south of Banning, north of San Jacinto);

Whitewater Canyon (east of

Cabazon).

Additionally, the Ramona Bowl, south of Hemet, will only be open daily from sunrise to noon.

Those violating the closures may be subject to a minimum fine of $100 for first-time offenses, according to the County Fire Department.

Travel through these areas on public roadways will still be permitted, fire officials said.

Future closures may be implemented based on weather conditions, fuel moisture and increased fire threat.