Fires roared across at least six areas in San Diego County on Wednesday. Homes were lost, and evacuations ordered throughout the county, including residential areas, schools, and Carlsbad’s Legoland theme park.
California State University San Marcos is now being evacuated as well. News reports indicated that at least 9,000 homes had lost power across the county due to both winds and fires.
At least 30 homes in Carlsbad were lost to the flames as of Wednesday afternoon while others continud to be threatened by the path of the fire there according to ABC 10 News. Legoland also lost power, which contributed to the need to evacuate. Around 23,000 were contacted to evacuate in the Carlsbad area alone.
Preliminary estimates report the Carlsbad fire has affected as many as 100-120 acres. Fire suppression efforts are projected to continue for days. Fifty-two engine companies and over 150 firefighters are involved in fighting the Carlsbad fire.
Santa Ana winds have stoked the fires and are projected to continue to play a part in spreading fires through Thursday. As winds shift direction there remains an element of uncertainty as to what areas face the most imminent danger. High temperatures this week are contributing to the strength of the flames as well.
Recently, electronic freeway signs have alerted San Diego residents to widespread water shortages, a situation compounded by the need for water to fight these fires. A reservoir near a Carlsbad golf course has been a helpful water source in fighting the fire. San Diego Gas & Electric is now calling for conservation of energy use as well.
At least 20,000 were contacted to evacuate in the Rancho Bernardo, Santaluz, Fairbanks and 4S Ranch areas late Tuesday. Reports Wednesday morning reported that fire has been 25% contained.
Two other fires sprang up in the Camp Pendleton area and winds pushed the flames in the direction of Fallbrook. Another blaze burnt in the Bonsall/Fallbrook area. Oceanside fought a fire as well and a new fire started in Escondido, according to reports by ABC 10 News.
While a number of structures have burned, many others have been saved by the diligent efforts of firefighters, police officers and San Diego County Sheriffs.
San Diego mayor Kevin Faulconer has declared a local state of emergency.
The National Weather Service has assessed risk level in the region as critical.
Photo: Michelle Moons/Breitbart News
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