Rain and lightning reported in Yucaipa

Heavy rain and lightning were being reported in Yucaipa by Sun reporters who are covering the Pendleton Fire.

Storm clouds were seen overhead at 4:20 p.m. from Avenue E, and large rain drops were falling to the ground. The rain has been in small patches.

Earlier today, fire officials had said rain would be welcome because of the moisture it would bring. But they were worried about possible lightning strikes that could start more fires.

"It's a critical time," said Calfire spokesman Martin Johnson. "We're looking at this really closely and hoping the (fire) lines hold."

Firefighters were unsure how the weather changes might affect the wildfire, Johnson explained. With the small storm cells can come erratics winds and downdrafts.