Evacuations ordered as 'growing' fire burns southwest of San Diego State campus
Evacuations have been ordered for San Diego residents as first responders battle an active brush fire near the San Diego State University area on Thursday.
The "large and growing" Fairmount Fire was burned at least 40 acres southwest of the campus, which is not under any threat, according to the San Diego Police Department.
The blaze remains at 0% containment as of 4 p.m. local time. Officials have closed roads and ordered evacuations in effect until at least midnight.
First responders from multiple agencies are on the scene battling the blaze, including air support dropping water and retardant, the San Diego Fire Department reported. Officials are ordering residents to avoid the area for the time being.
Smoke advisory issued, elementary school evacuated
A smoke advisory has been issued for central and southeastern San Diego County as the Fairmount fire continues to blow southeast Thursday evening.
While winds are expected to weaken overnight, smoke will fall near the ground impacting communities near Lemon Grove, Encanto, and Bonita, according to the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District.
"If you are near the affected communities and smell smoke it is advised that you limit physical/outdoor activity," the district wrote. "If possible, stay indoors to limit your exposure to fine particulate matter and ozone, especially those residents with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children.
While the blaze poses no danger to San Diego State's campus, several schools like Hardy Elementary were evacuated to the university's Viejas Arena, local station KSWB-TV reported.
"We ask for the public’s patience" San Diego Police Lt. Dan Meyer told the station. "We have quite a bit of resources out here fighting this fire, many agencies involved and we need the roadways clear. I know it’s a delay for the public, but it’s absolutely needed."