John Jefferson
Mandatory evacuations are expanding in Southern California early Tuesday as two wildfires are burning in San Diego County, with powerful Santa Ana wind gusts creating “dangerous fire conditions,” officials say.
Both the Lilac Fire and Pala Fire, which started early this morning near Bonsall and Pala Mesa, respectively, are threatening homes and businesses, according to Cal Fire.
“Mandatory evacuation orders are in place, and I cannot stress enough the importance of evacuating immediately and listening to first responders,” San Diego County District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond wrote on X.
“Santa Ana winds are creating dangerous fire conditions — please do not wait to leave if you are in an evacuation zone,” he added.
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As of Tuesday morning, the Lilac Fire “has consumed 80 acres with 10% containment, 86 residents are displaced and two structures have been damaged,” the North County Fire Protection District said. “There are over 200 firefighters assigned to the incident.”
“Firefighters are making good progress on the fire. The fire activity has decreased significantly,” Cal Fire added.
The Pala Fire has consumed about 30 acres and has a “slow rate of spread,” the agency added.
Evacuation orders have been issued for communities in proximity to the Lilac Fire.
“Be prepared to evacuate should conditions change. If you feel you are in danger, GO!” the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office warned on X.
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The causes of both fires remain under investigation.
FOX Weather Meteorologist Craig Herrera said “Right now, critical (fire weather) extends all the way down into San Diego County, and elevated (fire weather) goes into the high deserts.”
The National Weather Service said a top wind gust of 102 mph was recorded as of early this morning in San Diego County.
The region has been placed under a High Wind Warning until later this afternoon and a Red Flag Warning until tomorrow night.
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