Mandatory evacuations are expanding across Southern California early Tuesday as two wildfires burn in San Diego County and strong Santa Ana wind gusts create “dangerous fire conditions,” officials said. said.
The Lilac and Para fires broke out early this morning near Bonsall and Para Mesa, respectively, and are threatening homes and businesses, according to Cal Fire.
“With mandatory evacuation orders in effect, the importance of evacuating immediately and listening to first responders cannot be overstated,” said San Diego County District 5 Supervisor Jim Desmond. “No way,” he wrote to X.
“Santa Ana winds are creating dangerous fire conditions. If you're in an evacuation zone, don't wait and leave,” he added.
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Firefighters work to extinguish the Lilac Fire along Interstate 15 near the Bonsall community in San Diego County, California, on Tuesday, January 21st. (AP/Noah Berger)
As of Tuesday morning, the Lilac Fire had burned about 50 acres and had moderate spread, Cal Fire said.
The Pala Fire has burned about 30 acres and officials say they have stopped its rate of spread.
Evacuation orders have been issued for communities near the Lilac Fire.
“Be prepared to evacuate if conditions change. If you feel unsafe, go!” the San Diego County Sheriff's Office warned about the X.
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Vehicles pass through smoke from the Lilac Fire in Bonsall, California, on Tuesday. (AP/Jae C. Hong)
The causes of both fires are still under investigation.
FOX Weather Meteorologist Craig Herrera “Critical (fire weather) now extends into San Diego County, and high elevation (fire weather) extends into the high desert region,” he said.
Firefighters climb a ridge to battle the Lilac Fire. (AP/Jae C. Hong)
The National Weather Service recorded wind gusts near 90 mph in parts of San Diego County late Monday night.
Firefighters pull hoses to try to prevent the Lilac Fire from spreading near the Bonsall community in San Diego County, California, on Tuesday. (AP/Noah Berger)
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The area is under a strong wind warning until late this afternoon and a red flag warning until tomorrow night.
