Firefighters in Pala Mesa have diligently battled a vegetation fire that erupted north of Highway 76 near Rice Canyon Road. Initially identified as a one-acre blaze with a slow rate of spread, concerns were raised about the potential for growth to ten acres. The initial announcement was made via post from CAL FIRE/San Diego County Fire, setting the stage for an ongoing effort to contain what has been dubbed the #Rice2Fire.
@CALFIRESANDIEGO is at scene of a vegetation fire north of Highway 76 near Rice Canyon Road in the community of Pala Mesa. The fire is currently one acre with a slow rate of spread and has the potential to grow to ten acres. #Rice2Fire@NorthCountyFire pic.twitter.com/rsMqwRkcEF
— CAL FIRE/San Diego County Fire (@CALFIRESANDIEGO) September 9, 2024
The situation escalated throughout the day, with the fire expanding to an estimated 5 to 10 acres, although it was successfully held at a ridge. Despite the increase in size, no structures in the vicinity were in immediate danger.
Advancements were made as firefighters stopped the fire's forward progression around midnight. Come the morning of September 9th, official sources reported that the fire had reached 25% containment. Crews were set to remain on site, engaging in operations to achieve full containment of the fire, according to CAL FIRE/San Diego County Fire's update.
