The ‘Anita Fire’ started around 1:30 p.m. just south of Steele Canyon High School. NBC 7’s Kelvin Henry reports favorable weather and quick response from fire crews were key to getting the fire under control.
A 20-acre brush fire broke out in the Spring Valley area of San Diego County on Monday afternoon, prompting evacuation and shelter-in-place orders.
The "Anita Fire" was burning in the area of Millar Ranch Road and Millar Anita Lane in the San Miguel area around 2:19 p.m., Cal Fire/San Diego County Fire said. The fire was immediately threatening structures, which prompted those living nearby to evacuate.
Firefighters stopped forward spread of the fire at 10-15 acres, and gained 20% containment on the flames around 3:45 p.m.
By about 9 p.m., 20 acres had burned and firefighters gained 70% of the fire, deeming it safe enough to lift all evacuations. Millar Ranch Road was open to residents only, Cal Fire said.
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During the height of the fire, footage from SkyRanger7 overhead showed heavy smoke and red-hot flames burning near buildings. Firefighters could be seen using aerial support to drop water on the flames.
Cal Fire thanked the American Red Cross of Southern California for their support through water, shade, snacks and dinner for evacuees.
Evacuation areas
Local
The red part of the map indicates areas under an evacuation order, meaning those in that area were asked to evacuate immediately to remain safe.
An evacuation warning was originally issued for those in a yellow area of the map, meaning all those in that area should be prepared to evacuate, but that has since been removed.
Evacuation Centers
An Evacuation Center was set up at the Edwards Cinema at 2951 Jamacha Rd. in El Cajon.
