San Diego vegetation fire expands to 131 acres, prompting evacuations

A fast-moving vegetation fire broke out in San Diego on Sunday afternoon, rapidly expanding to 131 acres with zero percent containment and prompting evacuation orders for several zones. The blaze was first reported at approximately 1:30 p.m. on August 16, 2026, in a canyon area between Sorrento Valley Boulevard and Carmel Mountain Road, east of Interstate 15.

Firefighters immediately launched an aerial attack, with fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters from Cal Fire San Diego joining the effort. By 3 p.m., the fire had grown to an estimated 6 to 7 acres. However, shifting winds pushed flames south and southeast into areas with thicker vegetation, accelerating its spread. By late afternoon, Incident Command reported the fire had reached 131 acres. Smoke from the blaze was visible and smelled across a wide area, including El Cajon, La Mesa, Santee, and Lakeside.

The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department mobilized a significant response, which at its peak included 54 units and 160 personnel. This comprised four fire engines, seven brush rigs, two helicopters, two bulldozers, and a Type 3 Strike Team. San Diego police officers managed traffic control and closed several roads, including...