US: Crews responding to a brush fire in Rancho San Diego, California Dec. 2

Event

Emergency crews are likely to continue responding to a brush fire in Rancho San Diego in San Diego County, California, early Dec. 3. The fire was reported late Dec. 2 between the Willow Glen Drive and Hillsdale Road intersection and Cottonwood Golf Course. As of the early hours of Dec. 3, the fire was estimated to be approximately 10 hectares (25 acres) in size, with five-percent containment. At least one structure has been damaged, but there have been no reported injuries.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Department issued evacuation orders late Dec. 2 for Aspen Lane, Merlyn Place, Augusta Court, Sea Pines Road, Sawgrass Street, Bridge Hampton Place, Hilton Head Road, 1600-1900 blocks of Brabham Street, 2100-2500 blocks of Wind River Road, and areas near the intersection of Willow Glen Drive and Steele Canyon Road. Evacuation warnings are also in place for areas north of Willow Glenn Drive and east of Jamacha Road. A temporary evacuation site has been set up at McGrath Family YMCA on Campo Road (changed from the Edwards Cinema).

Business and transport disruptions are likely to persist in the affected area through Dec. 3. Anticipate the status of nearby roads to change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuated communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. Traffic flows could also be disrupted during re-entry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region. Power outages are also possible.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Charge battery-powered devices in case of prolonged power outages.