Two weeks after wildfires erupted in Los Angeles, new fires broke out more than 100 miles south in San Diego. The fires, fueled by powerful Santa Ana winds, have prompted emergency evacuations and forced school closures across the region.
Santa Ana winds fuel wildfires
The return of the strong winds escalated fire danger throughout southern California, triggering three new brush fires in San Diego County on Tuesday, Jan. 21. While firefighters were able to contain two of the fires, officials said the Lilac Fire continues to burn, putting homes, businesses and lives at risk.
More than 200 firefighters are currently battling the Lilac Fire, located just 45 minutes outside San Diego. As of Tuesday, the fire burned at least 80 acres and destroyed two structures. California fire officials report crews have contained approximately 10% of the fire’s spread, but the situation remains critical.
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Evacuations underway as authorities warn of immediate danger
The San Diego Sheriff’s Department issued urgent evacuation orders, warning that the Lilac Fire poses a direct threat to life and property. Officials urged residents in nearby areas to evacuate immediately, taking pets and livestock with them to safety.
#UPDATE Here is the latest map showing areas under an EVACUATION ORDER (red) and EVACUATION WARNING (yellow) due to the #LilacFire per the Genasys Protect App. You can also see the map here: https://t.co/9thJuBNyhU.
— San Diego Sheriff (@SDSheriff) January 21, 2025
If you feel you are in danger, GO!
The temporary evacuation… pic.twitter.com/acPoF5QqpY
Meanwhile, the Pala Fire, which is burning at a slower pace, has consumed nearly 20 acres and remains zero percent contained. Firefighters have managed to curb its spread, allowing authorities to lift some evacuation orders in the area.
The third fire consumed just one acre before crews successfully stopped the flames.
The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning and a red flag warning until at least Wednesday for parts of San Diego County, with gusts topping 100 miles per hour. These winds, which also affect Los Angeles County, have made firefighting efforts even more challenging.
Due to the fires and wind-related hazards, schools across the region have also closed.
Wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles
As the fires continue to spread, firefighters are also working to contain the Palisades and Eaton Fires in Los Angeles County, which remain partially contained. Both fires have already caused significant damage, destroying over 100,000 structures and killing at least 27 people.
While crews are making progress, fire crews said it will take a long time to fully contain the fires, and the overall devastation is mounting.
As of now, authorities have not determined the cause of the recent fires. Investigations are ongoing as fire crews continue their efforts to prevent further destruction and loss of life.
