San Diego County firefighters responded Tuesday to a brush fire near Julian amid strong Santa Ana winds that investigators later determined was started from someone mowing grass.
Crews were called to the area near 3700 Wynola Road around 11:30 a.m. for a report of a small brush fire, Cal Fire San Diego said.
The fire was burning in grass, not near structures, and with a moderate rate of spread. By 12:30 p.m., the fire's spread was halted after scorching three-and-a-half acres.
Red Flag Warning
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Once the fire was 100% contained around 3:30 p.m., investigators determined the cause of the fire as "mowing operations," which Cal Fire advises against during periods of fire weather like San Diego County was experiencing Tuesday.
"We urge residents to stay vigilant and avoid activities that can create unwanted sparks that lead to a wildland fire. When in doubt, please remember 'One Less Spark, One Less Wildfire,'" Cal Fire said in a post on X.
The agency provided the following reminders:
- One small spark can quickly become a large fire when it’s windy.
- When towing, ensure chains are not dragging.
- Avoid mowing or trimming dry grass on windy days.
- Do not park vehicles in dry grass.
- Ensure campfires are fully extinguished.
- Report suspicious activities promptly to prevent arson.
Cal Fire also urged residents to create an evacuation plan for humans and pets, to have a go-bag ready and to remove flammable items from the home.
The small blaze started amid strong Santa Ana winds and drastically low humidity that was creating dangerous conditions for wildfires in Southern California.
A high wind warning was set to go into effect for San Diego County's coast, valleys, and mountains at 4 p.m. Tuesday. That warning will be elevated to a red flag for the valleys and mountains at 4 a.m. Wednesday as wind gusts ramp up and humidity drops.
Los Angeles County had several wildfires break out Tuesday while their area was under a red flag warning. The largest sparked near Malibu in the Pacific Palisades area Tuesday morning and quickly grew to 200+ acres near homes.
This is a developing story. Details may change as information is released.
