The "Sage Fire," as it's been named, scorched across nearly 40 acres along State Route 94 with Cal Fire San Diego marshaling a full response to spare homes from holiday ruin. The fire, first reported in a tweet by CAL FIRE/SAN DIEGO COUNTY FIRE, had a "critical rate of spread" and was endangering structures before firefighters stepped in to corral the flames. "Firefighters are at scene of a vegetation fire in the area of the 13000 block of Highway 94 and the 13000 block of Vista Sage Lane in Jamul," the agency said in their initial announcement via Twitter.
.@CALFIRESANDIEGO Firefighters are at scene of a vegetation fire in the area of the 13000 block of Highway 94 cross of the 13000 block of Vista Sage Lane in Jamul. The fire is 20-25 acres with a critical rate of spread. There’s an immediate structure threat to the area. #SageFire
— CAL FIRE/SAN DIEGO COUNTY FIRE (@CALFIRESANDIEGO) November 23, 2023
Authorities were forced to issue a mandatory evacuation around 3:15 p.m. for residents affected by smoke along Lyons Valley Road and SR-94. Residents who were impacted were instead directed toward Steele Canyon High School for sanctuary. While the fire itself is 39 acres wide and 5 percent contained, the evacuation orders were lifted later in the evening as confirmed by FOX 5 San Diego.
While thankful denizens were allowed to return to their homes, SR-94's roads were not completely opened. Lanes remained closed for hours, with Cal Fire projecting just one lane to be open through the night.
The fire's origin remains a mystery for now, as officials are seeking answers. They are encouraging the public to travel with heightened caution.
