Published on: October 8, 2024, 08:02h.

Last updated on: October 8, 2024, 08:02h.

Many California residents who had to evacuate their homes due to a dangerous wildfire are currently finding temporary shelter at Golden Acorn Casino.

The wildfire, known as Posta 3 Fire, was rapidly spreading in Campo, California from Monday into Tuesday.

The fire affected around 220 acres in San Diego’s East County as of Monday afternoon. By Monday evening, it had expanded to approximately 350 acres. It was only 10% contained by early Tuesday, according to Cal Fire.

Firefighters were actively combating the blaze on both land and air, reported the Times of San Diego. They worked through the night to contain the fire, utilizing airtankers and helicopters for aerial support.

The wildfire started around 2:30 p.m. on Monday near the intersection of La Posta Road and Old Highway 80 in Campo.

County officials described it as a “vegetation fire” that was posing a threat to structures by Monday afternoon.

Evacuation Details

Residents in the immediate area were instructed to evacuate around 4 p.m. on Monday. An evacuation order mandates immediate departure from homes in high-risk areas. San Diego County officials explained that it signifies:

• Extreme danger in the area.
• Contacting neighbors for information sharing.

Others were advised to prepare for possible evacuation with an evacuation warning. The county officials clarified that an Evacuation Warning indicates a potential threat to life and property in the area.

The evacuation order and warning were issued by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department and affected between 200 and 250 residents residing in the region.

Several roads were closed on Monday evening, including Old Highway 80 between Crestwood Road and Kitchen Creek Road, and State Route 94 between La Posta Road and Old Highway 80, as announced by San Diego County officials in an online release.

As of Monday night, Cal Fire stated in an online update, “Firefighters are making good progress. Fire activity has significantly decreased.”

Two individuals affected by the fire sustained injuries, according to a report from California TV station KNSD. No further details were provided on their conditions. The cause of the fire remains unknown.

The affected area is situated roughly five miles west of Golden Acorn Casino.

Food and Supplies at the Casino Shelter

The casino set up a shelter on Golden Acorn Way shortly after the wildfire began to spread. The shelter is offering residents food and essential supplies. The American Red Cross is providing assistance to evacuees.

Larger animals can be taken to the San Diego County Animal Shelter in Bonita, California.