Border Fire Continues - 10% Containment
Last updated 6/22/2016 at 8:01am
Even with cooler temperatures, the steep terrain, extremely dry vegetation due to many years of Drought, difficult access and low humidity is continuing to hamper efforts in controlling the erratic ‘Border’ fire.
As fire fighters continue their efforts, as of 6.30 a.m. today, June 22, the fire continues to move to the north and northeast, threatening portions of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, which has now been closed, and the surrounding communities in southeastern San Diego County.
Containment lines were continuing to be constructed and strengthened throughout the night to establish perimeter control and fire personnel have managed to reduce the fire from 7,500 acres to an estimated 6,020 acres with 10% containment.
Approximately 1,000 structures remain threatened but no homes have burned, though 4 outbuildings were lost.
Many animals have already perished. People who evacuated and were unable to bring animals with them, or who were away when the fire started, were not allowed entry by authorities into the evacuation area due to concerns over shifting winds and the potential for fire to return. One chicken ranch has had many thousands of birds die. Dogs, pigs, horses and other animals remain at risk, some with no food and no water.
It is believed that volunteers will begin to enter certain safe areas today, to bring much needed food and water to stranded livestock.
Although cooler temperatures are assisting, the 1,550 personnel tackling the fire consists of 115 x engines, 30 x handcrews, 4 x airtankers, 6 x helicopters, 12 x water tenders and 8 x dozers.
The cause of the blaze is still under investigation.
