California Wildfire Forces Evacuations

July 2, 2004
Residents in about 35 north San Diego County homes were asked to voluntarily evacuate Thursday as a wildfire burned across 150 acres.
PALA, Calif. (AP) -- Residents in about 35 north San Diego County homes were asked to voluntarily evacuate Thursday as a wildfire burned across 150 acres.

The fire, which was reported shortly before 4 p.m. in a hilly area near the Pala Casino, was about 5 percent contained, said Audrey Hagen, a spokeswoman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. There was no estimate on when the fire would be fully contained.

``The winds have died down, so it's not moving as rapidly,'' Hagen said.

Flames were reported about a half-mile north of Pala Casino.

Four air tankers, four helicopters, 25 engines and 10 handcrews were on the scene late Thursday afternoon.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Firehouse, create an account today!