Northern San Diego County is under siege as three wildfires erupted overnight, driven by powerful Santa Ana winds. The Lilac Fire, which broke out in the Bonsall-Escondido area around 1:30 a.m., has scorched 30 acres and is spreading at a moderate pace. Local officials issued evacuation orders for areas south of Pala Mesa and west of Interstate 15, as buildings are under threat from the advancing flames.
Shortly after the Lilac Fire began, the Pala Fire ignited just a few miles north, also consuming 30 acres. It has prompted similar evacuation orders. Neither fire has been contained, according to CAL FIRE.
The third blaze, the Riverview Fire in Fallbrook, started later but has been largely contained. Firefighters described it as a vegetation fire that initially threatened nearby structures.
“The National Weather Service had earlier issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” Fire Weather Warning, citing extreme wind and dry conditions.”
These conditions have raised the risk of wildfires across Southern California, including San Diego and neighboring counties.
Meteorologists have reported wind speeds reaching up to 100 mph in some areas, further complicating firefighting efforts. Since early January, wildfires in Los Angeles County, such as the Palisades and Eaton Fires, have caused extensive damage, destroying over 14,000 structures and burning thousands of acres.
As of now, there are no reports of injuries in the San Diego County fires. However, authorities are urging residents to heed evacuation orders and prepare for rapidly changing conditions.
CAL FIRE and local emergency services are working around the clock to protect lives and property. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow updates from official channels.
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are asking the public to prioritize safety as firefighters battle the blazes.
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