A dry brush and vegetation fire in the Cleveland National Forest is 55% contained after crews worked overnight to increase the containment. Crews will keep working Sunday in the extreme heat to defeat the blaze.
“Crews are working diligently in the extreme heat to strengthen containment lines, identify hidden sources of heat, and keep the fire securely within its established perimeter,” CalFire said Sunday. “Their efforts remain focused on increasing containment and protecting nearby communities.”
Evacuation orders were lifted Friday night for areas around Lake Henshaw. East Grade Road at Highway 76 remains closed.
The Grade Fire is northwest of Lake Henshaw, far inland in North County, CalFire said, burning on rocky, hilly terrain. CalFire reported that the wildfire began around 1:30 p.m. Friday.
The cause of the fire was not immediately known but is under investigation. No structures were impacted by the destruction.
Crews are responding from the air and on the ground, according to a USDA Forest Service social media post. Up to 350 personnel responded to the brush fire. The Forest Service and CalFire are working together in a unified command to contain the blaze.
By Sunday, CalFire estimated the size of the fire was at 689 acres as of 8 a.m.
In addition, the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District issued a smoke advisory for northeastern San Diego, including Santa Ysabel and Warner Springs.
City News Service contributed to this report.
