SoCal Wildfires: Brush fire prompts new evacuations of 1000 people in San Diego's Mission Valley
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San Diego has until yesterday been unaffected by the extreme wildfire situation around Los Angeles. On Tuesday, the area had to evacuate its first 1000 residents for this fire season - hopefully also the last.
A brush fire, now named the Friars Fire, broke out near Fashion Valley Mall in San Diego on Tuesday afternoon, prompting the evacuation of nearly 1,000 residents. The blaze ignited around 12:30 PM local time near Friars Road and Via de la Moda and rapidly grew to scorch three acres, threatening nearby structures.
Emergency Response and Evacuations
According to Cal Fire, the Friars Fire is 0% contained, with more than 137 personnel deployed to combat the flames. The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department (SDFD) dispatched a robust response, including 20 fire engines, three helicopters, and three brush rigs.
Mandatory evacuations were issued for Zones 1894-A, 1975-B, and 1895, with officials warning of an "immediate threat to life." Evacuees were directed to a temporary shelter at Snap Dragon West Parking Lot. Roads in the area, including Friars Road to CA-163 and Linda Vista Road to Genesee Avenue, remain closed.
The fire department successfully halted the fire's forward progress by 2 PM, with no reported injuries or fatalities as of this writing.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the fire is under investigation. SDFD has assigned a fire investigator to the case, while concerns over other regional fires, including the nearby Lilac Fire and Pala Fire, raise questions about possible arson. Both earlier fires consumed over 100 acres and displayed signs of potential human involvement, including tire tracks near the ignition points.
Amy Reichert, a local community leader and founder of Restore San Diego, observed the fire's proximity to electrical towers and transmission lines, noting the challenges of intentionally starting a blaze in such an area. “If it was intentional, it’s pretty hard to get up there,” Reichert said.
Broader Impact and Red Flag Warning
The fire occurred amidst a Red Flag Warning for San Diego County, with strong Santa Ana winds and low humidity increasing fire risks through Wednesday. The San Diego County Office of Education evacuated its Linda Vista campus and announced closures until Wednesday.
Local frustration mounts as residents face repeated fire threats. Concerns about arson, combined with the potential fire risks posed by homeless encampments, add tension to an already precarious situation.
Continued Vigilance
As the Friars Fire joins the growing list of wildfires in California this season, officials stress vigilance and adherence to evacuation orders. With weather conditions unlikely to improve soon, fire crews remain on high alert across the region.
For updates, follow local authorities and visit Cal Fire’s website.
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