Sandia Fire Near Murrieta Prompts Evacuation Warnings

A wildfire erupted Tuesday afternoon in Southern California. The blaze, named the Sandia Fire, threatened homes near Temecula and Murrieta. It sparked immediate evacuation warnings for local residents.

Fire crews responded quickly and halted the fire’s forward progress. According to Cal Fire, the incident was first reported on Sandia Creek Road in the De Luz area.

Fire Contained After Burning 24 Acres

The Sandia Fire was mapped at 24 acres by Tuesday evening. Cal Fire confirmed the fire is now 10% contained. All air tankers have been released from the incident.

The forward rate of spread has been successfully stopped. Two additional hand crews were requested to help with mop-up operations. No structures have been reported lost.

Evacuation Warnings Lifted as Conditions Improve

Evacuation warnings were issued for residents north of Sandia Creek Drive. The warnings were also in effect for areas near Hermiena Avenue and Lynda Lane. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office lifted all warnings by 6:25 p.m.

No mandatory evacuations were ever ordered. No evacuation orders remain in place now. The situation improved thanks to firefighter efforts and favorable weather.

Meteorologists noted humidity levels were around 60%. This moisture likely helped slow the fire’s spread. The higher humidity provided a crucial advantage for ground and air crews.

The fire originally threatened structures as it grew. Additional resources were rushed to the scene. The quick response was key to protecting the community.

The successful containment of the Sandia Fire highlights the effectiveness of rapid emergency response in California. Firefighters gained the upper hand on the 24-acre blaze before nightfall. This incident serves as a critical reminder of persistent wildfire dangers in the region.

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Where was the Sandia Fire located?

The fire broke out on Sandia Creek Road, west of Doville Ranch Road. This area is west of Temecula and Murrieta in the De Luz community of California.

Are there still evacuations for the Sandia Fire?

No. All evacuation warnings were lifted by the evening of October 8th. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office confirmed no evacuation orders remain.

How big did the Sandia Fire get?

The fire was initially reported at 50 acres. It was later mapped by aircraft at a final size of 24 acres before containment efforts stopped its spread.

What is the current containment status?

As of the latest update, the Sandia Fire is 10% contained. Fire officials have stated the forward progress of the flames has been stopped.

What helped firefighters control the blaze?

Higher humidity levels around 60% assisted crews. This moisture reduced the fire’s intensity and spread, allowing ground and air resources to effectively contain it.