By SDCN Staff
San Diego, CA–Authorities lifted evacuation orders and warnings Monday afternoon after firefighters gained ground on a fast-moving brush fire that erupted in Sorrento Valley earlier in the day.
According to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, the blaze burned approximately 90 acres and was 40% contained as of Monday afternoon. Fire officials reported that the fire’s forward rate of spread had been stopped.
The fire was first reported around 9:20 a.m. near Vista Sorrento Parkway and Sorrento Valley Boulevard. Thick black smoke billowed from the area, prompting mandatory evacuation orders affecting more than 2,200 homes and businesses.
Firefighters responded aggressively both on the ground and from the air as the blaze rapidly advanced through dry vegetation. Aircraft dropped water and fire retardant on the fire while crews worked to protect nearby homes and commercial properties.
More than 400 firefighters from multiple agencies were mobilized to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading into surrounding neighborhoods and business districts.
Residents in nearby Del Mar reported seeing smoke from the fire in their communities. City officials emphasized that the fire posed no direct threat to Del Mar properties.
“A brush fire that is prompting evacuations in Sorrento Valley on Monday poses no threat to property in Del Mar,” Del Mar Fire Chief Bret Davidson said. Davidson added that Del Mar fire personnel were assisting in the regional response effort.
Earlier in the incident, the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department posted an update on X, formerly Twitter, stating: “SDFD is in unified command with multiple partner agencies responding to a 30-40 acre fire near Sorrento Valley Blvd. Moderate to heavy fuels, moving east with a dangerous rate of spread.”
Although evacuation orders have been lifted, fire officials said a brush rig and engine crews will remain in the area overnight to monitor for hot spots and ensure the fire remains contained.
Road closures along Sorrento Valley Boulevard remain in effect, though residents with proper identification are being allowed access to their properties.
The temporary evacuation center established at Mandell Weiss Eastgate Park in La Jolla has been closed.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
