Directories
Quick Searches
Find a Job
Quick Search
For Employers
Yahoo! HotJobs Local Search
Fire breaks out west of Temecula
By: The Californian - | ∞
A fire broke out in the hills about two miles west of Temecula just after 11 p.m Monday west of Rancho California Road in the area of Via Barranca and Via Vaquero.
The fire was visible burning on a ridgeline and appeared to be heading northeast toward town, according to initial reports. Westbound Rancho California Road was closed, but residents of rural De Luz were streaming east into Temecula after being evacuated by Riverside County sheriff's deputies.
Deputies reported to Sheriff's Department dispatchers that all residents on Calle La Paz were evacuated, as were homes on Via Vaquero.
Yadira Perez, 18, of Fallbrook was at the Unocal station on Jefferson Avenue and Old Town Front Street waiting to hear back from two friends who were trapped in De Luz. They had left Fallbrook to get away from the fires there and then encountered the blaze in the hills west of Temecula.
Fire officials were reporting about 11:55 p.m. that the blaze was roughly 25 to 50 acres and spreading rapidly through heavy brush. At that point, fire officials reported that more than 190 firefighters had responded to battle the flames.
If the fire were to advance toward town, it could threaten Old Town Temecula or an industrial park that is home to International Rectifier, Temecula City Hall and The Californian's offices.
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection officials were reporting that there were power lines down in the area of the fire.
More Stories
Advertisement
Californian editor wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:31 AM:We have no way to update this story other than to post our own blog comments at this point. We'll update more based on what we're hearing on the sheriff's scanner and the streets for the next short while.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:34 AM:Deputies are instructing residents of De Luz, a hilly community west of Temecula, to evacuate early Tuesday morning. I'm writing at 12:30 a.m. Tuesday, and there are a few dozen evacuees congregating at the intersection of Rancho California Road and Business Park Drive in western Temecula. No one is permitted to proceed further west on Rancho California Road. Other evacuees are stopping at the gas stations at Jefferson Avenue and Rancho California. One resident - Steve Barton, 53, of De Luz - was asleep when the fire broke out. "I was asleep and a neighbor came by and woke us up," Barton said, as he paced the Denny's parking lot on Rancho California. "And then I drove down the street - Via Baranca - and then I saw a firefighter and then three police officers drive into my driveway and they told us to get out. So we did." He, his three daughters and two dogs were safe. Other evacuees were instructed to head to the Temecula Community Recreation Center on Rancho Vista Way early Tuesday morning.
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:34 AM:As of 12:30 p.m. the fire incident commander reported to his dispatcher that there are three fires in the area. So far about 30 to 35 acres have burned and they are reporting there is the potential to burn about 2,000 to 3,000 acres. He reported that one of the fires was starting to calm down but still burning at a moderate pace.
IN TEMECULA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:40 AM:I live near the i-15 and Rancho California by the Marie Callendars, do you think the Deluz/Temecula Fire would make is this far? We have a sick father and 2 small children, any advice is appreciated! Thank you.
SK wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:40 AM:Please let us know what are the evacuation plans for and areas marked for evacuation in Temecula and Murrieta. And where to go in case of evacuation.
Ashley wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:42 AM:oh my gosh... i live off of the rancho california exit... and planned to move in to the Rancho West Apartments in a few weeks... and that is in the Old Town Temecula...Is this fire getting big? Should i be worried???
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:42 AM:Right now the fire is nowhere near Murrieta. As for where it's heading, we are hearing multiple reports on what direction the blaze is moving. The winds are swirling, the firefighters are saying, so it's not moving in a consistent straight line. It's a good three miles from the Marie Callendars.
Spenser wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:43 AM:The santa anas are pushing the fire towards the coast at the moment. So the city of temecula shouldn't be in too much danger. I can't see the fire from my home in meadowview though, what does it look like from where you (IN TEMECULA) are ?
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:45 AM:Some Fallbrook residents who resisted Monday's evacuation orders ended up leaving that community late that evening - by driving north into De Luz. Unbeknownst to the them, parts of De Luz were engulfed in flames. Kirk and Christine Aubuchon of Fallbrook were not among the early evacuees from that community because their vehicle broke down, said Christine, 49. Along with their six animals, they ended up huddling into a tight Nissan sedan driven by a neighbor late Monday - only to come within 300 feet of the De Luz fire, said Steve, 48. They were interviewed at the Denny's on Rancho California road.
Tanya wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:46 AM:Off 79s/temecula pkwy and pechanga. Is there a fire near there? do I need to leave?
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:47 AM:Deputies are not allowing anyone to proceed into De Luz from Temecula. One man tried to convince police, saying his 74-year-old mother-in-law and her two dogs were stuck in a home in De Luz. But he was not allowed through. The man, who did not give his name, said he would appeal to the Murrieta Fire Department for assistance.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:49 AM:This is a brief summary of the latest report from the California Department of Forestry regarding the De Luz fire: Voluntary evacuations have been implemented on and around Via Barranca Road and Sycamore Mesa, along with Via Santa Rosa and Via Vaquero, and Via Vaquero and Via La Paz. Some areas of Via Santa Rosa and Sandia Creek and Calle Capistrano are also being advised to evacuate.
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:50 AM:There is no fire near Pechanga that we are aware of. If we hear otherwise we'll update.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:50 AM:Tanya, the fire is in the hills west of Interstate 15 (Pechanga is to the east) and also west of Temecula in De Luz.
Kate wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:51 AM:I live in Harveston, and can see the flames coming over the mountian.. Not liking this at all. My parents tried to get here today from Escondido and got turned back. It's like we are trapped....
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:52 AM:At this point, the only evacuations are in the hills west of Temecula. There are no evacuations for Temecula or Murrieta. Should evacuations become necessary, there are evacuation centers set up at the Temecula Community Recreation Center on Rancho Vista Road and I believe they were going to open one at Temecula Valley High School, which is right across Margarita Road the CRC and Ronald Reagan Sports Park. If we hear about any oth
OFF RANCHO CALIFORNIA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:53 AM:I am looking outside my door at there appears to be a fire outside behind the mountain by Pechanga. My mother is going to check, will keep you posted.
Jill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:55 AM:Is there reverse 911 service for Temecula/Murrieta? We live in Murrieta and if the fire reaches here at night when everyone is asleep, how will we know when to leave?
Lynn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:57 AM:Is the fire located on that mountain right behind the area Diaz Rd and old Temecula? Im just really confused and scared. Don't know what to expect.
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:57 AM:Jill: Temecula does have a reverse 911 system and is prepared to use it if necessary. I don't know if Murrieta does, but the fire is quite a ways from there at this point.
MURRIETA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:59 AM:Wondering if anyone has heard about breaks...is the Murrieta Fire Dept protecting our side of the hillside that I see the fire peeking over. I live in Copper Canyon and I can see the fire outside my window! Is the fire going west or northwest or north period????
Jill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:02 AM:Thanks. Maybe I will nap for a couple of hours and then check for updates on the Temecula fire. My kids evacuated from Carmel Valley in San Diego today and are staying with us. Who knows if we have to evacuate from Murrieta too.
MURRIETA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:03 AM:According to Murrieta Police/Fire Dispatch Murrieta does NOT have reverse 911 they send officers door to door. They state that "there is no current threat so they have not called in extra officers to alert...evacuations not forseen at this point"
dan & sue williams wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:09 AM:we live on corte cristal which is off calle la paz were apparetly the fire started one block away on via Viaquero we are the next street over. We smelled smoke at about 11 p.m. or so but did not see any fire. We had already spoke to our neighbors earlier and said we would each noticefy each other if needed. Well at 11:05pm or so we got a phone call from our dear neighbors and told us the fire was coming down the hill behind our house rather quickly burning through the avocado grove. we called our third neighbor and off we went. We are staying at our daughters house in Red hawk. Thank god we are all out and our neighbors and pets are safe. We just remodled our home so .. we are hoping that those 190 firefighters are working on our street now. Over the years we have supplied the mercedes station and the temecula station on Paba rd with avocados so Thank God for the fire dept. now its our turn. We have four fire fighters in NY so its part of our family history. Thank you in advance we are hoping for the best and hoping that our house will be there in the morning and we hope the winds will die down We are aski8ng the god to bless our homes and we will hope to be able to go home in the morning. amnmorning.
Andy Dale wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:17 AM:I am at my home located at Sandia Creek and Rock Mtn rd in the De luz area of Fallbrook. We are just a few hundred yards from the Riverside county line. Looking north there was a little smoke around 30 mins ago, but no sign of flame at all. We have not seen any evidence of the Fallbrook fire since the smoke visible to our south clear 4 or 5 hours ago. So we are sitting tight until we see hard evidence of a spread of the Via Vaaquero fire. Hopefully the firefighters are getting it knocked down. The winds have dropped quite a bit which is encouraging. The baby pics are in the minivan, ready to go.
dan & sue wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:18 AM:we live on corte cristal which is off calle la paz were apparetly the fire started one block away on via Viaquero we are the next street over. We smelled smoke at about 11 p.m. or so but did not see any fire. We had already spoke to our neighbors earlier and said we would each noticefy each other if needed. Well at 11:05pm or so we got a phone call from our dear neighbors and told us the fire was coming down the hill behind our house rather quickly burning through the avocado grove. we called our third neighbor and off we went. We are staying at our daughters house in Red hawk. Thank god we are all out and our neighbors and pets are safe. We just remodled our home so .. we are hoping that those 190 firefighters are working on our street now. Over the years we have supplied the mercedes station and the temecula station on Paba rd with avocados so Thank God for the fire dept. now its our turn. We have four fire fighters in NY so its part of our family history. Thank you in advance we are hoping for the best and hoping that our house will be there in the morning and we hope the winds will die down We are aski8ng the god to bless our homes and we will hope to be able to go home in the morning. amnmorning.
scott wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:20 AM:I live in Paseo de Sol and can see the smoke (red) coming over the mountain where DeLuz/Camp Pendleton is.
French Valley wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:20 AM:i can see the flames over the mountain when i drive down winchester road from french valley. i'm not sure exactly how close it's getting to temecula itself but im pretty worried because i have family members all over the temecula/murrieta area. please keep us updated. thanks.
Laura in LA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:20 AM:The actual avacado trees were burning??? That's crazy! How hot does that fire need to be? Too hot for the sprinklers? My mom was evacuated from Pala Mesa near Canonita / Oak Island Lane. She got confusing/no info and made it on De Luz (it is now burned?) How did that end of Pala Mesa do? She heard that hill on the north of Canonita was burning. Thank God for this blog!
deluz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:24 AM:what direction is the deluz fire going in? is diaz road and the rest of temecula in danger?
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:28 AM:Based on scanner reports the progress of the fire has slowed somewhat. Deputies are doing mandatory evacuations in some areas of De Luz and just notifying residents of voluntary evacuations in other areas. It's unclear which streets are mandatory versus voluntary at this point based on what we're hearing. At this point, we are not hearing anything about Diaz, Temecula or Murrieta being in imminent danger. We'll let you know if we hear something different.
SCM wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:30 AM:First off, thanks to NC Times for allowing direct comments instead of the delayed "must approve first" option they usually use, since this is where worried folks can get the fastest information. :)
Donnie Boyle, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:30 AM:One couple's ordeal -- A couple fleeing the massive blaze encircling Fallbrook early Tuesday morning was met by the last thing they wanted to see — another fire. Wayne and Kim Molter said they took one of the only remaining routes out of Fallbrook — through De Luz — and just made it through before the road was closed. "I can't believe there is another fire going," Kim Molter said. "We were trying to get out of one and just ran into another — unbelievable." Following mandatory evacuation orders Monday afternoon, the couple later returned to their home to retrieve their pets and some personal items and were headed back to Southwest County. Wayne Molter said the evacuation was anything but orderly. "Everyone was scrambling to get out and no was directing anybody," he said. "We turned off of our street and right into a wall of flames." Molter said after getting out of Fallbrook they were relieved — they were headed to a relative's home in Sun City — when they came upon the De Luz fire. "I am in shock," Kim Molter said watching the glowing hills above Temecula from a strip mall on Old Town Front Street. "I was in denial all day and seeing this now, my house probably won't be there in the morning." With the route through De Luz closed, Wayne Molter said he wondered how Fallbrook residents who hadn't evacuated would make it out. "I am afraid someone is going to get hurt," he said. "If I didn't know my way around we wouldn't have gotten out."
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:31 AM:Both fire and sheriff's authorities are saying they have one of the three blazes surrounded. It's not out, but that means it's less likely that that particular fire will continue to spread. Two others are not yet contained, according to scanner reports.
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:35 AM:The comments on this blog are still being edited, we're trying to get through them as quickly as possible. Posts with Web sites listed in them are being deleted. Please do not post Web site addresses or e-mail addresses.
Andy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:36 AM:We are six miles south of Rancho Calif Road on Sandia Creek Drive in De Luz, five miles north of Fallbrook. No sign of any fire in any direction, no smoke, no glow or anything. Winds are light. So far so good.
To Andy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:37 AM:This is Kevin, Tom's mate. Stay safe up there and don't sit too tight.
Wondering wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:45 AM:is there any way that the fire can reach to La Cresta at any point? i live near and i am worried...keep us updated!
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:45 AM:There is little new information coming out right now. Firefighters are still battling two blazes. I have not heard that they're moving significantly. At this point neither Temecula nor Murrieta is immediately threatened. If we're apprised of significant updates I'll get back on and post more. Otherwise, check back early tomorrow for additional updates. Either a new story on continued blog postings will be here.
bri wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:46 AM:please c an anyone tell me how close the fire is from meadowview i can see flames coming and they look way too close for my comfort i live off of calle fiesta
wiley wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:48 AM:I don't understand how come this is the only website where there is any mention of this fire. Temecula is just kinda screwed when it comes to things like this I guess.
Andy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:51 AM:The TV coverage of the Fallbrook fire by the San Diego stations has been PATHETIC. Shame on them. The FCC is going to hear from me regarding their total failure to live up to the obligations of their FCC licenses to provide public service info to the ENTIRE county, not just places an "easy drive" from Kearney Mesa. Just venting here.
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:56 AM:Riverside County sheriff's deputies in the area of the De Luz fire are now reporting that the Fallbrook fire is visible to them from their vantage point.
wiley wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:58 AM:I definatley see my first sign of flames and emergency vehicles on the west side of I-15. Vieweing from paseo del sol
petey wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:58 AM:Cut the media a break, they're strained and stretched thin, too. We can see the fire from the Harveston, but it appears weaker than a couple of hours ago.
Andy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:59 AM:Still no evidence of fire in any direction in this part of De Luz, halfway between Temecula and Fallbrook on Sandia Creek Drive. Power is on, sat TV and internet works, sipping a cold beer. Anyone near Via Santa Rosa/Vaquero have an update? Kevin we are fine.
bri wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:00 AM:please guys any news on the meadowview thing half an hour ago i could see it clear as day and i just have a bad feeling
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:02 AM:No fire near Meadowview that we are aware of. We are listening to a couple of scanners as well as monitoring CDF's Web site. So I'm fairly confident there's nothing out that way. Anyone with hard facts otherwise feel free to update me.
Heather wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:02 AM:I am starting to see the flames as well from Redhawk. It looks to be coming over the DeLuz mountain and above Old Town. Does anyone know the wind direction as of now? Is South East Temecula on alert?
kim wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:03 AM:In Temecula are there any channels on Dish Network that gets local news or San Diego news.
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:06 AM:I believe that if you have a good antennae you can pick up KUSI on Channel 12 in southern Temecula. I heard it was also beinge simulcast on AM 1090 earlier today. Don't know if that's the case now. I am not aware of any San Diego channels available on Dish. STAND BY FOR UPDATE. CDF is updating their dispatchers now. I'll be right back to you.
Spenser wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:06 AM:I live in meadowview by Day middle school. The fire is nowhere near here and the winds are blowing it to the coast. I am going back to sleep.
Ridge Park Circle wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:08 AM:If anyone could keep me posted as to how close the fire is getting to Ridge Park Circle x Rancho California Road, or if it's heading in that direction, I would really appreciate it. Lauri (and coworkers), thanks so much for staying up through this and keeping us updated.
Kris wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:10 AM:We are all the way out near Meadowview and I can see what looks like little flames coming over the ridge down towards Old town and out to Murrieta? Is anyone closer who can confirm that?
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:12 AM:OK, as CDF officials just reported to their commanders over the radio, here is the status of the De Luz fires: They are estimating that 105 acres have been charred by the three fires in the hills west of Temecula. One of those is surrounded and has been held to 4 or 5 acres. The rest of the damage is coming from two other fires, which are about 40 to 50 acres each. One is near some portion of Via Vaquero, which is the south end of De Luz near the Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve. The other active fire is near Via Peregrino, which is on the eastern end of De Luz about a mile or two west of Old Town Temecula. Fire officials said that they are seeing a slow- to moderate rate of spread due to current weather conditions. Because of that, they told commanders that they are hoping to prevent the blaze from consuming more than a total of 200 acres. There has been no talk of evacuations in Old Town Temecula or elsewhere in Temecula. They noted during their dispatch that another update would be at least an hour away.
kayla wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:13 AM:i live about 3 miles from old town off of rancho cal. i can't see the fire because of too many houses in the way but my friend who lives a street down from me says the fire is coming over the hill fast.
Andy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:13 AM:Winds are light, 10 mph or so in De Luz. Still no evidence of fire here. Daylight will bring heavier winds I bet. Hope the pros on the fire line are getting the upper hand. Fallbrook has taken it on the chin. Much worse than the Gavilan fire of 2003. Very sad, and my sympathies go out to anyone affected.
wiley wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:16 AM:Keep in mind that at night a fire will appear much closer than it really is. When it's the only thing in the sky it appears to be right in front of you.
Andy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:17 AM:I get San Diego TV stations on my DISH Network system because I am in San Diego County, but just barely. My neighbors are in Riverside County with Temecula addresses, but our zipcode is Fallbrook
Alex wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:19 AM:do we go to bed or stay up and wait? i was involved in the 03 fires in arrowhead.. cant stand this feeling i feel for you all! the only thing we can do is pray.
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:20 AM:Please folks, help a moderator out ... no full names, no Web sites, no phone numbers and no e-mail addresses. If, for instance, you're trying to refer folks such as Kim to live news coverage on Channel 10's Web site, just say that. They can google search. But we can't be posting Web sites, e-mail addresses and phone numbers willy nilly. Thanks!
porsche wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:24 AM:i live on via tornado,... when we left flames were comming down the hill in front of our door step. we are the last house on the street. has anyone heard if any houses have caught fire????
aimee wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:30 AM:do you know if the fire has burned on Sandia Creek.. Right after Via Barranca and Sky Rocket Drive.. please let me know.. that is my house but i was evacuated!
ps wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:31 AM:I will be renewing my subscription to the NC Times....I am in Bonsall/SouthWest Fallbrook and this is more information then I have gotten from any source all day.
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:32 AM:Sorry folks, but even journalists have to sleep sometime. I'm signing off. Don't know if there are any other moderators left on at this point. If not, your posts won't make it on. Sorry about that. But we have to be working bright and early to update you all on what's going on. If I get a call of a fire heading into town I'll be back up and updating you all. Try to have a decent night, considering. Back with stories tomorrow.
French Valley wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:33 AM:we just decided to go outside and see how far its going and i can see the flames up on the hills in de luz when i drive down winchester road. i see two sets of fire so far and it looks like one of the smaller one is reaching the top of the hills. as we drove back up winchester we also saw the flames on the other sides of the hills. i'm guessing that's the fire going on interstate 10, beaumont area.
Jose wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:33 AM:Hey whats up does anyone know the status of thefires by Temecula. Any info would be greatly apreciated.
Chris wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:35 AM:If Anyone has any information on where we can volunteer in temecula to help these people out please post it on here we would like to do everything possible to help!
bri wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:35 AM:anyone please any news updates for meadowview area see flames coming up over hill ???
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:50 AM:Hey all, Lauri's passing out from exhaustion (it's been a very, very long day...), but I'm going to take over for now. I'm operating from my house in Harveston in Temecula, not the Californian office on Rancho California Road, which is currently blocked off. I'm also not near a scanner. However, we want to keep this forum going. Again, don't post Web sites, phone numbers or e-mail addresses. It's also helpful if those who want to post can give a location from where they're writing. I'll do my best to keep you guys up to date.
ron wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:56 AM:does anyone know if classes are still on at mt san jacinto college in menifee? i know they canceled classes today was wondering if they canceled tommorrows classes also
porsche wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:56 AM:were hold up at my dads coldwell banker office,.... eat'in funyuns and beef jerky. watch'in youtube home vidoes of the fire. any word on the Via Peregrino fire?? that one was burning our avocado grove as we ran to our cars!!!
porsche wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:00 AM:i dont know if my j is cancelled but palomar in san marcos is!
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:00 AM:An evacuation center is open at the Temecula Recreation Center located at 30875 Rancho Vista Road. Evacuation orders will be re-evaluated at first light.
Ryan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:00 AM:any CDF UPDATES ABOUT DE LUZ FIRE.. My dad lives off of via escondido and called to say they were being evacuated..any updated info greatly appericated...thanks
bri wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:03 AM:any updates for meadowview pete. have a mother battling cancer and a brother in san diego going up for heart surgery. any news for the temecula/ meadowview area could really help me out
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:04 AM:No CDF updates at the moment. Keeping an eye on things, will let you know.
g wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:11 AM:someone told me the fire is only 3 miles from rancho cal rd in temecula, true or no?
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:15 AM:Still no CDF info, my apologies. From my vantage point at the Harveston, the fire appears to be over the ridgeline and has not advanced toward Temecula. The winds are calm in this part of town. If anyone is still in the general area of the blazes and can give a location, that information would be greatly appreciated. I can't post anything I can't verify, though I'm making efforts to check on some of the things posted. I'm not having much luck at the moment, but I'll keep at it.
yanna wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:21 AM:my parents were evacuated from their home on calle escadera street in De Luz. Are there any reports of homes that have been burned at this time?
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:24 AM:I am having some trouble with my computer and several comments are being lost. I apologize. There have been no reports of any fires east of I-15 in this area. The current fire, named the Rosa fire, is about five miles west of I-15.
MamaSue wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:26 AM:Thank you, Pete. My husband is working at the Temecula Creek Inn right now, and I've been worried about his being so close to the fire and the evacuation line... although apparently I'm only about a mile further away. We're all worried and afraid to sleep - at least I am. Any news or even knowing that someone is trying to find out what is going on, is helpful and comforting in the midst of this horrific disaster.
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:36 AM:The fires are not close to Murrieta or Lake Elsinore. I'm sorry for delays, guys... I'm kind of a one-man newsroom and I'm not in a newsroom and the cpu is giving me some grief. According to the CDF, the fires in Aguanga area have been fully contained for some time.
Trina & Jason wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:37 AM:"I live in the De Luz area. My neighbor got a call around 1:00 am from a friend on sandia creek telling her it is time to evacuate. We have not had a mandatory evacuation yet. I am on Calle mateo near the corner of carancho and el prado so far I havent seen any flames but I do see the glow. At this point in my presonal opinion I wouldn't be too worried about the fire reaching into town but you never know. I am sure it will be daylight before that happens if it does. We are all loaded up now and very thankful for the neighbors giving us the early warning. As I said from my point(which is very near the cross creek golf course) I have not seen flames but can see a glow and light smoke. "
Linda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:39 AM:"We're on Puerta de Lomas just off Sleeping Indian. Smoke is getting worse. Police outside just told my hus that there is voluntary evac for this area now. "
arrowood wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:41 AM:"i can still see the stars out in arrowood (5 miles sw of gird/76). air quality is decent."
Victor wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:42 AM:"I live in Meadowview. The fire isn't even close. It's on the ridgeline of the De Luz hills. I'll go out and check again."
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:44 AM:The fire is not close to Murrieta or Lake Elsinore. At this time, it is not an imminent threat to Temecula.
Victor wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:53 AM:I live near the club house in Meadowview. The fire is still on the ridge line about 5 or 6 miles away. I'm not worried but I am prepared... just in case.
sallee wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:56 AM:thanks victor just worried from calle fiesta i can see the flames coming up over the hills
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:58 AM:Folks, I'm sorry but I'm having some trouble posting comments, not sure why and there isn't a computer tech on call where this site's servers are located. Also, I'm trying to monitor several Web sites and make a couple of phone calls. Right now, I'm trying to post specific witness reports or other verifiable information.
Jen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:00 AM:Hey, I am in the Winchester/French Valley area. Can you tell me if we have a reverse 911 for here? I have several pets and small chidren. After seeing flames this evening while driving southbound on Leon and also on Winchester, I have been WAY nervous to go to bed :\
Chris wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:01 AM:Is there anyone who lives in the De Luz area who knows the current status of the fire and it's direction.
Dottie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:02 AM:Pete, Thanks so much! You are doing a fantastic job! Thanks so much for posting these live comments!
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:06 AM:I'm having a lot of trouble getting information from here. I'm going to try to head into the newsroom where I'll have better resources. I will update shortly, and post your comments then. Please stand by...
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:16 AM:Hi folks, while Pete is en route to the office, I'll be trying to filter some of the comments...
jose wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:18 AM:Im on rancho california and ynez any word on how the fire is doing
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:22 AM:Pete just arrived at the office, and I'm on my way there now (after a three-hour cat nap). Hopefully, we'll have more information to bring you by 5 a.m.
Aramis wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:27 AM:I am writing this at 4:30am but at about 3:30 am a fire broke out in Murrieta off of Jackson Rd. Located behind the Camden apartments. Fire crews responded to the small blaze.
Jason and Trina wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:27 AM:I am on the corner of calle mateo and carrancho(near cross creek golf course) I can see the red glow and some smoke but as off 1am this morning I haven't seen any flames yet. We are all packed and are ready to go just waiting for the reverse 911 call.
Deb wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:29 AM:I live off of Ynez and Rancho Vista. I have been watching the fire for about a half an hour. I can hardly see it now. It looks like it is on the other side of the hill going west.
Bee wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:34 AM:I have been watching this fire all night from Ynez/Winchester. At the start you could see the flames at the TOP of the ridgeline. Then it seemed to go down the ridgeline away from Temecula. However at about 4:15 it appeared to head back top. At this very moment I only see smoke, no fire. GOOD sign I hope. But we all know that, that can change quickly.
Diane & Kjeld wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:37 AM:Were still at home on Calle Mateo, anyone that has left, do you have any information on the fires, our exits are Carancho Road or Rancho California. Please advise any information you may have.
Bee wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:37 AM:Just a reminder, after walking outside of my work building...The air is very smokey...
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:41 AM:OK, I'm set up at the office and Staff writer Brian Eckhouse is on his way to the command center to try to find more information. At the time, there remains no imminent threat to Temecula. The fire is burning west of town. Those leaving the De Luz area are gathering at the Ronald Reagan Sports Park.
Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:42 AM:Aramis. is there any more info on the fire in murrieta/jackson rd?
Trina and Jason wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:45 AM:I haven't seen any glow or flames or even smoke for about a half hour---calle mateo near the cross creek golf course
Bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:46 AM:Answering machine is working near Green Hills Place & Alta Vista Dr."
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:48 AM:We have information from the command center and will post shortly. Stand by...
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:52 AM:I will be posting an update from authorities shortly. Pete is looking into the alleged Murrieta fire at Jackson Avenue.
Tom in De Luz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:54 AM:I just woke up not too long a go in De Luz (a safe part close to the Santa Rosa platou) and well I can see three different fires De Luz,Fallbrook, San Marcos. Anyways dear Californian staff I am wondering if you can release the frequencies you are listeing to so I can tune my scanners in.
Pete in Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:54 AM:The view of the fire in De Luz East of Temecula as seen from Murrieta near California Oaks and Clinton Keith, about 8 or more miles direct line of sight, has grown a LOT larger at 4:15 AM. When I looked for it at about 2 or 3 AM I could barely see it. Now it is obvious with a glance in that direction. Some direct flames are visable, but a larger area is burning as shown by smoke raising above the ridge line and lighted by flames. There is no wind here. My guess is there is no conceivable threat to Murrieta, except possibly houses back near the hills IF the wind is strong again tomorrow AND goes across the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve.
Dottie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:55 AM:I just spoke with my SIL in Murrieta and she said that the fire was contained quickly there.
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:56 AM:To reach the Reagan sports park, head east on Rancho California from the 15, turn right on Ynez, then left on Rancho Vista.
bba wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:00 AM:i live on de luz road one mile from Rancho California road near Crosscreek Golf course. All my friends on Sandia Creek were ordered to evacuate at 12:00. I have the car packed up but the fire seems far off right now. It has really died down in the past hour but we are watching carefully. We are going to go down "dirt De Luz" into Murrieta if we see the flames getting closer (ie coming further west and north)
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:05 AM:NEWS UPDATE: Authorities suspect arson caused Tuesday evening’s fire in De Luz, which has prompted hundreds of residents to evacuate, Sgt. Dwayne Neuenswander said from a command post Tuesday at 4:45 a.m. “It would appear to be arson at this point,” said Neuenswander, who works for the Temecula Police Department. “It’s a very high probability.” Three separate blazes make up the Rosa fire, he said, which started about a mile apart from each another. “It really didn’t start from embers,” the sergeant said. "That's for sure."
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:06 AM:NEWS UPDATE: It’s unclear how many acres the Rosa fire has consumed, but authorities are not aware of any serious injuries, said Sgt. Dwayne Neuenswander, and don’t believe any homes were damaged. “It’s better than it was,” Neuenswander said of the De Luz fire. “It was horrible when it first started out. It spread rapidly – multiple flash points.” At least 15 deputies remain in the hills west of Temecula, he said.
Jose wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:08 AM:Im off of Ynez and rancho vista the wind is really starting to pick up here
jose wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:13 AM:Do you know if the percentage that the fires have been contained. Can you let me know.
Lori wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:13 AM:I was heading to work on the 15 only to find out it is still closed at the 79.(last night caltrans website said it was closed at the 78) I could see flames along the ridge.Called work at 4:15am wont be in. Pete and Lauri thanks for the hard work. I know you are getting out any info you are getting,but it's very upsetting when areas like Fallbrook are always being forgotten. Too far north for San Diego to care about and too far south for L.A/ Riverside to care about.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:16 AM:jose, I don't know the status of any of the fires besides the Rosa fire in De Luz, and authorities have yet to disclose how much of that blaze has been surrounded. When we know more, we will be sure to post on this blog or on the main nctimes.com site.
Pedro & Napoleon wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:16 AM:The fire is coming over to the east of the mountain. We are at Rancho cal & business PKWY
Tom in De Luz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:18 AM:Well it looks like it died down quite a bit which is good I am going to try to get back to bed.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Write wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:20 AM:I can't confirm that the De Luz fire has come over the hills (re: Pedro & Napoleon's blog entry at 5:16 a.m.) The fire has been visible in much of Temecula since around 11 p.m. Monday, when it appeared to move along the peak of the De Luz hills. I hope to have more information soon.
porsche wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:24 AM:Hey there,.. Internets back up, any new for via tornado rd??? Were down at the rec center, everybody here is very nice and helpful thanx red cross!!! Any news of when we can go back home??
Lupe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:26 AM:Anything new with fire coming to Cal Oaks road or clinton keith in Murrieta?
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:26 AM:MURRIETA NEWS UPDATE (courtesy of Staff Writer Pete Zanko): A small fire broke out about 3 a.m. Tuesday on a plot of land along Jackson Avenue in Murrieta, between California Oaks Road and Monroe Avenue. Several trees caught fire, but it was quickly put out by firefighters, said a security guard at The Colony. It is unclear how many acres were consumed by the Murrieta fire.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:30 AM:Staff writer Pete Zanko and I will be out of the Temecula newsroom for a short while. We will be talking to people affected by the fires. We hope to be back with you shortly.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:40 AM:NEWS UPDATE: Sheriff's deputies still have Rancho California Road west of Business Park Drive closed due to the Rosa fire. Only authorities are being allowed into the De Luz hills at this time.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:43 AM:Sheldon Otto, 60, of Temecula was among those early Tuesday morning to be denied access to Rancho California Road west of Business Park Drive because of the Rosa fire. Otto said he manages a 60-plus acre ranch in the hills near Fallbrook, and hoped to get to a family and two dogs who live on that expanse. He doesn't know if they're safe or trapped. "I'm kind of edgy right now," Otto said. There's a lot at stake."
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:45 AM:QUICK TIDBIT: The command post for the Rosa fire in De Luz is at Temecula City Hall, 43200 Business Park Drive.
porsche wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:45 AM:Hey there,.. Internets back up, any new for via tornado rd??? Were down at the rec center, everybody here is very nice and helpful thanx red cross!!! Any news of when we can go back home??
Elliot wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:49 AM:fire is still burning, from what i can see its pretty cotained at the ridge of the hills. dont think itll reach town. i work off enterprise circle nrth. so im pretty close! work can wait, ill be back with updates!
ERIN wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:50 AM:are there any websites where we can actually find local Murrieta and Temecula fire info?
AvocadoJoe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:50 AM:I would appreciate any latest News on De Luz fires. OMG, there are so many new homes that area as well as older homes, my prayers to all my neighbors. I was just up there yesterday afternoon and thought that we were safe. Thank you to all the Fire Fighters, Policemen and all the people who are working up there. GOD BLESS THEM!
CrossCreek Employee wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:51 AM:Does anyone know the status of the fire near CrossCreek Golf Club?
LUpe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:56 AM:which direction is the fire on rancho calif rd going? North? is it on the 15/215 freeway?
ronda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:00 AM:i live on solana way in temecula and see the fire on the ridge. is there any updates? one moment it seems to want to crest the hill and then the next moment it seems to back burn onto itself. would be grateful for anymore information
Teacher wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:00 AM:I am so sorry to hear that the fire has spread and new ones are developing. Has there been any school closures in this area? I teach in Murrieta and live in Oceanside. It seems that the 15 is closed. If the schools are to be opened, any one know of an alternate route to get there? Thank you in advance and my prayers go out to all families, firefighters and police abd sheriffs. Please stay safe and out of their way!
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:01 AM:NEWS UPDATE: It’s unclear how many acres the Rosa fire has consumed, but authorities are not aware of any serious injuries, said Sgt. Dwayne Neuenswander, and don’t believe any homes were damaged. “It’s better than it was,” Neuenswander said of the De Luz fire. “It was horrible when it first started out. It spread rapidly – multiple flash points.” At least 15 deputies remain in the hills west of Temecula, he said.
Claudia wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:01 AM:Can anyone tell us if there has been any fire damage in Fallbrook, east of the Fallbrook golf course? Thanks
Jose wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:02 AM:I dont see the flames. I barely see the smoke. Did they put the fire out
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:03 AM:LUpe, the Rosa fire in De Luz has not reached either freeway - and appears to be nowhere close to Interstates 15 or 215.
Jules wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:03 AM:Does anyone know if the 15 is open between Fallbrook and Wildomar?
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:04 AM:MURRIETA NEWS UPDATE: A quick response by Murrieta emergency personnel to a small fire prevented the evacuation of 59 elderly residents from an assisted living center. When the fire broke out at about 3 a.m. Tuesday on a patch of land along Jackson Avenue, medical technician William Mendez at Murrieta Gardens Assisted Living Center pulled out the center's evacuation plans and prepared to move the residents, some of whom are Alzheimer's disease patients. However, the blaze was quickly extinguished, and Mendez did not even have to waken his charges. "They did a pretty good job, the fire department, the police," he said. "The Fire Department comes her pretty often to prepare us, so knew what to do."
lisa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:06 AM:supposedly the only way from SD county to over here in Temecula/Murrieta is to go to the 91. My husband works at North Island and had to leave 4 hours early this morning and he took the (from Temecula) 15N to the 91W to the 5S.
Paula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:06 AM:I'm in Wildomar off the 15 and it's clear here but don't know how far south before the 15 is closed.
Teacher wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:06 AM:Interstate 15 is closed between the 76 and 79 highways. 76 is closed West to East Vista Way.
Susan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:08 AM:I am getting a Cal Trans report that the I-15 is closed at Winchester. Can anyone confirm? IF TVHS is to be an evacuation shelter, will classes be held?
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:09 AM:As of now, I-15 is closed at the interchange with Highway 79. Traffic heading south is being turned around at that point.
Teacher wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:09 AM:Thanks Lisa for the openings. No way I would make roll call going that way. Looks like a sick day. Sad irony in that....
Elliot wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:09 AM:Im sure the freeway is still closed! Check Caltrans, youll get the info you need from there!
Jessica wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:11 AM:I live in Winchester off of Winchester Road and Benton Road. Are we safe out here or should get bags packed to go ?
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:12 AM:If you would like to share your stories of how the fires have affected your life in Southwest Riverside County, please e-mail us at yourstories@californian.com. Please include your name, address and a phone number where you can be reached.
Joel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:12 AM:Brian, Peter: Thank you both so much for the Temecula updates. No where else on the TV or web to get the local info. Thanks!
Bill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:14 AM:Lisa your husband can save some time if he takes the 74 to base instead of the 91 its a little bit quicker.
ronda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:17 AM:just to let you know we can see what seem to be water drops happening and the fire seem to be settling down a bit. aircraft is over the site now.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:18 AM:Our erstwhile columnist John Hunneman has arrived at the newsroom. He will be joining Pete and I on the blog.
Jeannie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:18 AM: I live in Washington State, but my niece and her family live in Temecula. Thanks for the frequent updates. This may be the only way I will know exactly what is going on in your region today. Sending prayers.
Elliot wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:19 AM:There are no fires in Temecula or Murrietta! Its up to you if you wanna have a bag packed, where you going?
Teacher wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:20 AM:Ditto! This is the only resource for fires in my area and for the Inland Empire at this point. I guess only million dollar homes get news coverage. Seems cynical how the news stations will show these homes burning to the ground while ignoring the need of the public to receive up to date coverage in all ares of San Diego County. And since there is a huge connection to San Diego and Temecula region with many commuter people effected, it should also be included in reports. THIS SITE IS THE BEST UP TO DATE COVERAGE! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!
John Hunneman, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:21 AM:Just arrived in the newsroom and will do my best to update info as it becomes available.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:21 AM:Poor grammar on my part above. Just to clarify: John Hunneman, our columnist, will be joining Pete Zanko and me on the blog.
Teacher wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:27 AM:I am trying to find out about Temecula Valley HS. They have been declared an evacuation center and I don't know if that means whether or not the school will be open for classes. Any ideas? The district website has not been updated since yesterday afternoon.
Rocio wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:30 AM:I can no longer see the fire from where I'm at off of Margarita Road. I hope this means the fire is now contained?
Michael wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:32 AM:It's times like this that I feel we are totally neglected by most media outlets. Too far north for SD coverage and too remote for LA. WE NEED A REAL LOCAL TV STATION-one that is carried by all providers. Thanks to the Californian staff for being here.
John Hunneman, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:41 AM:Because I know there will be numerous calls about this this morning....SCHOOL IS OPEN IN TEMECULA TODAY...just confirmed that with the TVUSD spokeswoman. As far as we know school is open in all Southwest County Districts today but I'll confirm that as the morning goes on. As was the case yesterday, the kids are going to be kept indoors and physical activity outdoors will be limited.
John Hunneman, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:47 AM:Another quick note...I don't know how some of the information gets on this blog, but unless you get it from me or another one of our staff writers here at the newspaper, we cannot vouch for its authenticity
Texas Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:47 AM:Thanks NC Times for your outstanding coverage. I live in Houston, but I have family in North County & South Riverside County. Y'all doing great work. Our prayers are with all of you now.
Christine wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:47 AM:How will we know when Rancho California re-opens for residents? I live near Camaron & De Anza-just of Sandia Creek. I don't think I should drive my kids to their school in Temecula until I'm certain we can return home this afternoon. Any thoughts?
TA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:47 AM:A TV station would be nice, but at the very least we need a local radio station that actually covers news like this. Thank goodness for the NC Times blogs!
Teacher wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:47 AM:Just to let you know, there are a lot of teachers that live in San Diego County but work in Murrieta and Temecula areas. The roads are closed between us. There will be huge taecher absences and the need for subs. Please advise your children to be on their best behavior for their subs. It will be one less thing to worry about during this crazy scary time. Thnak you
Cindy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:48 AM:Is the 15 southbound open at 79 south??? I was just on Sign on San Diego and it only said the northbound was closed between 78 and 79.
Alex wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:49 AM:We live in the Cottges of Old Town. Does anyone have an update on the De Luz fire if it is posing a threat for us to be evacuated? Thank you in advance for your help.
John Hunneman, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:52 AM:An update from Fallbrook...fire has burned about 1,500 acres in the area so far. Numerous homes have been lost, no exact numbers yet. They'll know more as the sun comes up. Fire officials report heavy damage to homes in the Valley Oaks Trailer Park. There has also been damage to the condos at Pala Mesa Village and some damage to the Pala Mesa Resort clubhouse and the Cal-Fire Red Mountain Station. Three injuries reported so far, 2 civilian, 1 firefighter. None serious.
MSJC Staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:53 AM:Do you know if the Menifee campus will be open today? We evacuated yesterday morning around 10:30. Don't want to make the drive if they're closing again.
Deborah wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:54 AM:Just to thank Lori from Californian and Pete Zanko, and Brian from Californian for the incredible communication here in Temecula on the fire progress throughout the night. This has been the ONLY place for updates and true facts of what is going on. Really made a difference in handling this terrible situation. It calmed down my very emotional teenager who was extremely scared during the night. Just wanted you to know the impact of your incredible journalism in a time of crisis in our town. Your lack of sleep to help us get the info we need is truly appreciated.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:54 AM:Several updates are coming. I'll be posting them in the next few minutes.
Todd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:54 AM:Waking up in Redhawk we can see smoke rising above the hills southeast of town towards the south of the hill Palomar sits on. This is not the fire being spoken about west of town. Anyone know about this one?
Teacher wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:56 AM:Texas/Californian I have a nephew in Houston! Thanks for your prayers. It is obvious that this is effecting people from all over and NCTimes is the only news source at this time!
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:59 AM:TRAFFIC UPATE: Rancho California Road west of Business Park Drive remains closed. Traffic east of that is light on both sides. We hope to have an update on the Interstate 15 closures by 8 a.m.
Another MSJC Staffer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:02 AM:The PE blog reports that the MSJC Menifee Campus will be open today. I live close by and hope to be there by 8:30 this morning. I will post a notice on this blog confirming whether it is open or closed.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:02 AM:MT. SAN JACINTO COLLEGE UPDATE: The community college has closed their San Jacinto campus Tuesday. But as of 7 a.m. Tuesday, the Menifee campus is slated to be open for classes, according to Mt. San Jacinto College spokesman Bill Marchese. Electrical problems prompted the closing of the San Jacinto campus, Marchese said.
shortwave info wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:02 AM:Are there any maps of this fire? None of the news outlets I could find show this one.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:03 AM:UPDATE: Temecula Police are no longer using City Hall as a command center for the Rosa fire in De Luz.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:05 AM:Just a reminder: We cannot post comments that include phone numbers or Web addresses.
Scott wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:07 AM:The smoke Southeast of us is the Rainbow "Rice" fire from what I've heard. We're not hearing anything about it coming toward Temec though...anyone hearing differently?
Avocadojoe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:07 AM:Any more news on Via Santa Rosa, Via Tornado and Via Vasquero? I have properties up there and I am praying for my neighbors up there. There are several homes and some owners are out of the areas. I called my neighbor yesterday afternoon and told him it was ok since I went up there but now I have to tell him there are fire up there. I have no clue what is happening to our properties!! Thanks NC Times staff & everyone for the update!
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:08 AM:Tersia, the last update we had on the Rosa fire was at 4:45 a.m. Tuesday. A deputy said the fire was not nearly as bad as it was when it broke out - in three separate locations - around 11 p.m. Monday. We hope to update the status of the fire - which again appears limited to De Luz - within the hour or so.
Ben wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:09 AM:I live in Turtle Creek St off 79 Sounth and Butterfield Stage, I am stuck in San Diego and can't get to my family due to the 15 closure. Does anyone know if 79 south area is in any danger of fire? Thanks.
Bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:10 AM:An amazing view at 7:00 AM of the smoke in the air. The air over Murrieta and most of Temecula is clear. There is a long low cloud of smoke just hanging out over South Temecula. It looks like it is many miles long. It extends about 60 degrees of view from as seen from Murrieta. If you can get a view of the Mountains south or southwest of Temecular it will be worth it to go outside and take a look. It may even be drifting there from as far away as Fallbrook and Escondito, or at least Rainbow and De Luz. It looks like too much smoke to be from De Luz alone.
Linda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:12 AM:Scott, there are visible flames on the hills above Old Town Temecula.
Jim wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:13 AM:We live near the intersection of Sandia Creek and Carrancho and evacuated about 2AM. We appreciate the DeLuz fire updates, please continue to keep us informed of the fire status. This site seems to be the only source of information. We are highly interested in the fire boundries, and direction of travel. We have many friends in the area and would appreciate notices of structure damage and where. Thanks for your help!
lwolfe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:14 AM:Ben - I was near that area at 6:30 a.m. and everything looks fine.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:15 AM:EVACUATION CENTER UPDATE: Almost 220 evacuees checked into the Temecula Community Recreation Center by 6:30 a.m., said Lynda Shoemaker, the shelter's manager. The Community Recreation Center on Rancho Vista Way has a capacity of 250, she said. "We're not filled yet," Shoemaker said. "We have enough cots for everyone." About 25 evacuees of the Rosa fire in De Luz arrived at the shelter by 12:30 a.m. Tuesday, she said. A steady stream of De Luz evacuees has checked in since.
Sylvia Nolen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:15 AM:Thank you NC Times staff for all your blog coverage throughout the night and wee hours of the morning. This blog is about the only place that is keeping us abreast of the fires burning here locally. Temecula/Murrieta residents: You guys are awesome and amazing. The sense of community is overwhelming during these troubling times. It makes me proud to call Temecula "home".
Debra Keenan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:16 AM:Is there an update on the I-15 closures at 79? As of 0715 Caltrans does not say closed but sigalert.com reports it still closed. Thank you.
Scott wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:16 AM:Ben, I live on 79s and Butterfield too, no danger at this time whatsoever that we see. Smoke from the Rice fire is visible from here and we saw the glow from the fire until the sun came up, but with the winds going westerly, I don't think we're in trouble. Do you need someone to go check on your family/pets?
John Hunneman, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:18 AM:Interstate 15 Southbound is open at Highway 79 South The traffic blockades at the southbound on-ramps to I-15 at Rancho California and Highway 79 S have been removed. There is still a blockade on Rancho California Road westbound at Business Park Drive. It appears that residents with proper IDs are being let through. The sun is coming up. It is clear to the east of Temeucla but the smoke is laying heavy to the south in the Rainbow/Fallbrook area. The winds are starting to pick up. There is no visible smoke coming from the fire reported to the west of Temecula. Nothing, let me repeat, NOTHING, is burning or threatened in Temecula or Murrieta at this hour. We will get you more information about the "Rosa" Fire in De Luz area as soon as the CDF-Riverside public information people start answering their phones.
to Ben @7:09 wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:19 AM:From Bob. There would be no problems on 79 South, at least for many miles. There were or are fires in Rainbow and De Luz, and of course in Fallbrook. There was a different fire way out at Angora.
Suzanne wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:19 AM:I live in Redhawk and have views of hills in Old Town looks like it has calmed down quite a bit. Relative to 79 south by buttefield stage your family is ok no fires near there at this time. There is smoke to the south of us but appears to be from Rice fire. The TV Schools are open.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:20 AM:MORE EVACUATION CENTER NEWS: The Temecula Community Recreation Center, which is serving as a shelter for evacuees of the De Luz and Fallbrook fires, also has become a temporary home to pets, said shelter manager Lynda Shoemaker. Animal Friends of the Valley has set up two staging areas, including one for household pets, she said. There also is a staging area for large animals, including pets.
lkw wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:21 AM:It was reported on the radio that although the blockade at Rancho California Road has been removed, the I-15 is still closed south of Fallbrook.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:21 AM:Staff writer Pete Zanko, who stayed up all night covering the De Luz fire, has checked out for a brief nap.
DRU wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:21 AM:Does any one know the direction of the Temecula fire? Is it coming east or heading to the coast?
Avocadojoe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:22 AM:The SD Santa Margarita Ecological Preserve have 7 Live Web Cams / Virtual Tours for the surrounding areas but now I can see one of the cameras is showing toally black image!! Can I go to the City Hall for the info about update on my & my neighbors' properties up there? Well I am going up to the city hall to find out.
Joel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:22 AM:Thanks to John Hunneman and Brian Eckhouse..I just bookmarked this site as have many other Temec. residents for local information.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:24 AM:We have been told an update on the Rosa fire in De Luz will be available in about 10 minutes. We hope to post the update soon after.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:32 AM:As John Hunneman wrote earlier, school is in session in Temecula. We hope to update the status of other Southwest Riverside County school districts soon.
Pete Zanko, Californian staff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:32 AM:I'm signing off. I hope we've helped. Good luck to all of you, and stay safe.
melody wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:33 AM:my father lives on via vaquero. do you know if the homes there were saved and do you know if people are allowed back up yet? thank you so much for offering this info!!!
Mike wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:36 AM:In new updates about the roads between here and san diego being open or closed.
MSJC Staffer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:37 AM:A big thanks goes out to Pete, Brian, John and The Californian. You've gone above and beyond the call of duty to keep all of us updated on the local fires. And, by the way, last night Pete did a wonderful job in spite of his computer problems.
mary wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:37 AM:Fallbrook;Is Potter Jr High and Live Oak Elementary unaffected by fire? Concerned from Georgia
Tami wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:38 AM:Thank you for your efforts. My de luz neighbors and I read your blog all night and knew our area was still safe (Carancho X Fuerte still no sign of fire).
why is it... wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:40 AM:that TvUSD would be open on incidences like this. Teacher's are having a hard time getting to work, the emergency personnel is asking to keep all roads clear. Kids are wearing mask at school because of the smoke and asthma issues. If Temecula was on fire TVUSD would keep the schools open. I believe that we should close the schools today, let the fire crew in all areas do their jobs....
Jim wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:41 AM:tIf the Staff hears that residents are allowed back into DeLuz would you please post the information here? This site continues to be the best and only source of DeLuz fire information, please keep posting the comments. The Staff has been wonderful!
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:43 AM:Staff Writer John Hunneman will post an update on the Rosa Fire in De Luz shortly.
jon wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:44 AM:I completely agree with "why is it..." are the businesses at the foot of de lez off of Rancho Cal operating? My offices wont answer their phones... im thinking thats a hint
bba wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:44 AM:I live in De Luz and this site has been the ONLY source of information for both the Rosa fire and the fire in Fallbrook. Thank you so much!! I have satellite and all the newstations are for LA and there is no way to change this. Is there anything the Californian can do to help Temecula residents with this lack of coverage?
jon wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:46 AM:should Temecula Residents be advising the power and cell phone plea
Brian Eckhouse, staff writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:46 AM:jon, The Californian's office is right next to the police blockade at Rancho California Road and Business Park Drive. (Vehicles cannot proceed west on Rancho Cal into De Luz, site of the Rosa fire). We have power and phone service at our office.
John Hunneman, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:49 AM:UPDATE ON THE "ROSA" Fire ----- Info as of 7:40 a.m. from Cheri Petterson, CDF public information person. The fire in the hills west of Temecula is 70 percent contained. It spread to 325 acres overnight. No injuries have been reported and there is NO REPORTED STRUCTURE DAMAGE. Crews are up in the area checking it out this morning, and cell service up there is spotty, but CDF will get us more information as available. "We were very fortunate," Patterson said. "The winds were very cooperative ovenight." About 200 firefighters fought the blaze. Patterson also praised the residents of De Luz for their cooperation. Voluntary evacuations were called for last night and between 50-100 people left. Many of them ended up at the Red Cross shelter at the Temecula CRC. De Luz residents are being let back to their homes this morning but they must show IDs at the checkpoint at Rancho Calif. Road
DRU wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:49 AM:IM am in Hemet at work but live in Temecula. Should i be concerned at this point an d head home?
Dianna wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:51 AM:Thank you so much for keeping us updated. Temecula area doesn't exist on other news channels and our only local channel is just repeating old news.
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:53 AM:EVACUATION SHELTER UPDATE: If the Temecula Community Recreation Center - which has provided a temporary home to evacuees of the De Luz and Fallbrook fires - fills up, people will be sent across the street to Temecula Valley High School. At 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, nearly 220 people had checked into the CRC on Rancho Vista Way (east of Ynez Road). It has a capacity of 250, said shelter manager Lynda Shoemaker.
Frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:53 AM:TVUSD can fill the openings left by teachers having a hard time getting to work with substitute teachers. There is no reason to press the panic button. If you want to keep your child home due to asthma, you have the ability to. Use it. Closing the schools has nothing to do with fire crews moving about the Temecula area. They are near the fire where they need to be, not roaming the streets of Temecula. Please use some common sense. If the need arises, im sure that the TVUSD staff will close the schools. Obviously, if Temecula was on fire the schools would be closed. Again, use common sense.
Sandra wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:55 AM:Thanks for this info. we live on Calle La Paz and it is an answer to our prayers that our homes seem to be OK. Thanks again for your great coverage!!
Elliot wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:55 AM:Uhm to all you people who are worried about Temecula burning or something, it wont, dont worry!! The fire is not gonna get any closer, nor is it gonna burn any of the city!
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:59 AM:Staff writer John Hunneman and I are checking off the blog now. We expect to provide a summary article of the news we've posted here since 4:30 a.m. It will be posted on nctimes.com.
Frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:00 AM:I do use common sense and I am not panicing. Teacher were missing yesterday at the school and they WERE NOT filled by subs. My husband is out fighting those fires and I know what they would like done. If EVERYONE would work together it would make the fire fighters jobs a whole lot easier. People should just stay home and keep the roads and freeways clear. It is just that simple
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:01 AM:Our erstwhile columnist John Hunneman has arrived at the newsroom. He will be joining Pete and I on the blog.
Lori wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:04 AM:Does anyone know if MSJC in Menifee Campus will be open today. They canceled classes on Monday. The one blog on this was somewhat confusing. Please advise if anyone knows.
Joel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:07 AM:Agree Frank@ 7:53 I kept the kids home from Elementary School yesterday. They should have gone, but we had a "fear of the unknown". Both will be going today.
Kevan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:08 AM:What is the word on Rainbow?? Parents live in Oakcrest Estates and have evacuated, but very concerned about their community.
Ryan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:08 AM:they are letting only residents up currently my dads house on via escondido is still there he did confirm that it is still very smokey up there though..
Linda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:11 AM:I just want to thank you all so much for your hard work providing information throughout the night. Great job.
Rob P wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:12 AM:I am from Oceanside and now in Orlando FL, I have family in Fallbrook - Rainbow Glenn Rd and cant get in touch with them, is there any word on fires in that area. Thanks Rob P
Texan Doug wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:15 AM:Just spoke to my folks in De Luz (north of Cross Creek). Cars are packed and waiting for the word to evac. Hopefully this fire off Rancho California will die down with shifting winds. Thanks to NCTimes for providing this forum and good information so those of us in flyover country can keep tabs on our loved ones.
Erin wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:19 AM:Ya it says the MSJC campus is suppose to be open... but who knows if its going to change..
andy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:22 AM:exscuse me frank. where are you located? because frankly me house in temecula was very and is still very close to an oncoming fire. and you telling us to use our common sense rude. my farther is a firefighter and he knows that fires break out quickly and can move from point a to point b faster than you can imagine. so yes, if you can see flames like we could from our bedroom window i believe we have the right to be concerned, especially for the safety of our kids at school.
Elisa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:27 AM:Thank you NC Times for this site. Its a huge relief to have local information available.
Daniel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:28 AM:My answering machine still works on Winter Haven Lane on the other side of gird mountain. Does anyone know the status of Potter Jr. High and Live Oak Elementary? Has the fire started down Fallbrook Street? I am in Irvine trying to get info. Anything would be helpful! Thanks!
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:29 AM:Lori, the Menifee campus is open. San Jacinto campus is closed.
Thankful in TX wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:32 AM: I have family in the areas frequently mentioned on this blog. I have tried to find any information about these areas else where and I have only been able to find it here. Thank you so much for having this blog and having the updates throughout the night.Your dedication, your sleepless nights and frequent updates helped many, Thank you to the staff who kept us updated.
Dianna wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:35 AM:Valley Center update. My husband works @ Harrah's in Valley Center and was notified @ 5 a.m. that they were closing the casino. We just got report from security that the land across the street from Harrah's has completely burned. There is a market and the gas station are completely gone, I believe a few home losses, but many are saved. I will try to update on Valley Center area conditions as we get more information.
Lee wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:35 AM:I'm a De Luz resident. Thank you NCTimes for the invaluable updates.
Kathy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:37 AM:My sister lives on Deluz Rd. She is on her way home from a business trip. she has horses and dogs. wants to get home abd then see if she needs to evacuate. what roads can she take from the airport to deluz? are the fires close in this area?
Big D wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:41 AM:I kept my children home for the last two days as a precautionary measure. I dont want them breathing that smoke while they walk between classrooms. They already have allergies and I don't want it to develop into asthma. We are watching the news and discussing fire safety and evacuation routes. Its a different lesson plan but learning non the less.
Angela wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:41 AM:I am up in De luz off Coronacho, i am wanting to get down but I need to get back up. Does anyone know if you can get back up via the dirt road?
Linda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:42 AM:Lori, my husband works at MSJC Menifee campus and he says it's open today.
Jim wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:45 AM:I see from the CDF update they are letting residents back up into DeLuz with identification BUT I don't want to go back home just to have to leave again because of the Fallbrook fire. Does anyone know if the Fallbrook fire is heading toward DeLuz? Please keep this valuable resource open and alive... Thanks!
to DRU wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:47 AM:No fire problem to be concerned with in Temecula or Murieta unless possibly you live up in the hills to the West. There is a large column of smoke visible from over the mountain southwest of Murrieta and Temecula but it is not close. By looking at the map and the direction to the smoke it is from the other side of Palomar Mountain right into the "La Jolla Indian Reservation Fire." That is about 15 miles southeast of the Pala Indian Casino on hwy 76. That wildfire was started from a house that was on fire inside first according to reports. It has burned several hundred acres so far. Some people probably thought that the smoke was still from the Rice Canyon fire in Rainbow, but this smoke is too far East to be from there. The smoke lines up as I described above.
Angela wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:49 AM:Still trying to find out if I leave DeLuz,if the sherrif will let me back up to my house via the De luz dirt road?
Frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:52 AM:Andy, again common sense comes into play here. If you can see flames from your house, it is probably time to evacuate. If you are concerned for your children's safety at school, then DONT SEND THEM TO SCHOOL!!. Pretty simple stuff. It is up to each parent to make the descion. Let's try not to panic here Andy.
naomi wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:54 AM:my fiances family is in de luz off sandia creek....is rancho cali closed or will i be able to help them get their things packed????
Patrick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:56 AM:Does anyone know how far west along Santa Margarita the fire has progressed? I understand it was stopped along Gird/Live Oak in Fallbrook, but is it still working west along the river valley?
Rachelle wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:56 AM:Any info for De Luz Residents around the Harris Trail Area/Deluz Rd?
Peter wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:59 AM:Any info on the La Jolla Indian Reservation fire south east of Temecula.
JR wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:01 AM:Anyone have updates on either the LaJolla Indian Reservation/Pauma Fire, or the one west of Rancho California Road?
Terry wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:06 AM:Do you know if Cross Creek Golf COurse is in danger, or if it is closed
Brian Eckhouse, Staff Writer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:06 AM:Lori, the Menifee campus is open. San Jacinto campus is closed.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:06 AM:Itis now 9 am what is the latest story what about the fallbrook fire is it cominginto Temecula?
Mr. J wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:06 AM:To Kathy @ 8:37am ... Your sister shouldn't have a problem getting to her home in the De Luz area as long as she has her ID with her when she gets back from her business trip. As of this morning the authorities are letting De Luz area residents come back to their homes with proper ID.
Lynn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:08 AM:I Work right off of Jefferson and all I can see is blue skies. Have they contained the fire? Is it blowing west? Does anyone know the current update on this fire?
Ellen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:08 AM: I'm hearing that Deer Park Rd. is evacuating. Please provide more info to Bonsall/Gopher Canyon residents. We're still in the dark and have been all night.
Steve wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:10 AM:Wanted to share some information with folks living in Murrieta/Temecula area; just got off the phone from the Rosa Fire Information Line; the Rosa fire is 70% contained and there is no threat at this time, the fire is moving away from Murrieta/Temecula. For more information please visit the Riverside County Fire dept website for information on the Rosa fire: http://appsweb.co.riverside.ca.us/firepio/process?action=viewIncidentHtml&id=23180. The phone number for the Rosa Fire Information Line is (951) 940-6985. I would like to say a special thanks to the Staff of the Californian that stayed up overnight to provide SWC residents authentic updates on the fire. God Bless everyone and stay safe.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:10 AM:What about the fallbrook fire as well as the de lux fire. I live in temecula and with the winds and the dry brush it doesn't look very safe. I live at the very edge of Pujol
Cheryl wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:11 AM:Nobody is PANICING, FRANK ! You are trying to make people on this blog feel dumb and it's very rude. Stop making rude comments and telling people to get some common sense. Have you heard of Compassion???? The rest of us are here to try and help each other out.
Bruce wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:12 AM:We are in De Luz about two blocks from the fire that started on Via Peregrino. It came down the hill around 4am towards Via Santa Rosa and Via Horca, south of Via Tornado. It is currently moving through the avocado groves towards the south and west. The winds are blustery and predominantly to the west. It is moving towards the new homes that were repossessed and they let the groves go dry. If it hits these groves the fire will explode and take the new homes with it. There are fire crews working the blaze and it's moving slowing through the groves towards Via Santa Rosa. It doesn't look nearly as bad as it did last night. We are packed and ready to go if it reaches Via Santa Rosa. It is not going towards town. Can't tell what damage it did on Via Tornado north of Via Santa Rosa. Definitely arson because it all started last night at the same time, around 11pm.
Mr.J wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:13 AM:To Kathy @ 8:37am ..... the fire is 100% contained... the authorities are letting De Luz residence go back to their homes as long as they show proper ID at Rancho Cal Rd. So your sister shouldn't have any problem.
Pete wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:14 AM:To Kathy @ 8:37am ..... the fire is 100% contained... the authorities are letting De Luz residence go back to their homes as long as they show proper ID at Rancho Cal Rd. So your sister shouldn't have any problem.
martin wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:14 AM:Thanks Frank. Andy wasn't expressing fear of the fire in his first comment. He was criticizing TVUSD and implying they don't heed emergency protocols(wrong). Only after you told him to calm down did he say he was worried for his kids. And then imply he knows better than the rest of us when its time to worry because his Dad is a firefighter. I agree w/Frank, if you're worried then by all means evacuate now.
Angela wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:15 AM:just f.y.i., I am over off of Coroancho and De Luz road. The sky is clear with very little smoke if any.
Karen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:22 AM:i have family in the temecula winery area, is everything ok over there?
Jill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:24 AM:Any new updates on Fallbrook...are the fires out, are they out of danger yet- I am on phone with Tyler who is from middle Fallbrook speaking to me from Major Market there is NO WIND AT ALL, air very smokey , getting hit with ash no embers and only 7-11 open for gas....any questions please post here...
Dan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:24 AM:Does anyone know exactly why KUSI video signal (Channel 8 on Time Warner Cable) has been out since Monday afternoon? They do a brilliant job and the L.A. stations don't tell us much about our part of the world.
Shell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:25 AM:How come they dont have this on a news channel so we can get a better view of whats gone on here? I live off Rancho cali. and Margerita
Bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:26 AM:TV channel 27 in Temecula just reported around 9:00 AM that 800 acres have been reported burned so far in the La Jolla Indian Reservation Fire which started early this morning. It also said 500 homes have been destroyed in Fallbrook. The Indian Reservation fire is the one that is making so much white smoke we can see from Temecula and Murrieta to the southeast.
AvocadoJoe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:27 AM:Rancho California Road West to De Luz is now open for RESIDENTS (with IDs only) to go back in. However, residents who are going to Via Santa Rosa can not go on Via Santa Rosa Road as yet. The Fire Department are still checking around and they said that it might be open for access by 12:00 noon. So far I also heard that there are no structure damage but there were fire damages on some avocado groves.
denise wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:29 AM:i work at harrah's and have friends that are trapped inside. la jolla res did have some fire dont know if its all consumed. 5 friends barely made it out. i hope your friends/family are ok
debby wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:30 AM:temecula fire... are they in danger?? what about road access into fallbrook trying to reach elderly family member that lost her mobile home early last evening! Thanks to NC times for keeping all of us posted!
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:35 AM:any news onthe fallbrook fire, it looks like itis rapidly approaching temecula where I live, what about the de lux fire as well have any of the residence been able to return to see if there homes are still standing or in danger?
Mark wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:36 AM:Is SB15 from Temecula to San Diego open yet?? I am looking outside my window and it looks like their is cars going towards the scales..
Joe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:38 AM:What is the status of the fire near Temecula? I have family there and would like an update...
Hey Frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:41 AM:FYI there were many teachers out yesterday because of the threat to their homes as well as not being able to get on the freeways. My husband is a firefighter and they are asking that the roads be kept clear EVERYWHERE. These fires can start anywhere at anytime. We should be doing our part to help by keeping the roads clear. That is common sense. Work the problem don't become part of the problem....
John wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:42 AM:We are south east of Temecula, just in the line with Pechanga reservation, and we are looking at the smoke comming from Pala, and is moving really fast over the hills of Palomar and Pechanga, any updates on that fire? Thank you in advance for any info!
Joan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:45 AM:Anyone know if Lake Elsinore is safe? I have a brother with his wife and two kids under 4 years old.
oh yeah wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:47 AM:The teachers that were out, the district was not able to fill their position with subs. They had to blend the classes together.
carrie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:50 AM:I live in Fallbrook and was evacuated yesterday. I am in Orange county and the news here barely mentions San Diego county and nothing on the Rice fire. Thanks for your website! Do you have an update on Fallbrook? Any idea when we can return? Can we still go to San Clemente if we can't go home?
Shell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:52 AM:Bob: I checked channel 27 but it was a jewel channel...I have Time Warner Cable.
Matt wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:53 AM:Debby and Joe - I'm in the business park right below De Luz in Temecula (Business Park Drive). There is nothing going on here, there are no problems in Temecula. We could see flames on top of De Luz early this morning 5:30am, but can't see anything now,not even smoke. The fire has pushed west.
Shell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:53 AM:Channel 8 that give's us the best local news has posted that the channel is out due to the fire's
Matt wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:53 AM:Wind is still blowing strong here in DeLuz...I can see the Fallbrook fire, and there is now another fire that is between Rancho/Sandia creek and the Fallbrook fire. I think it will move somewhat slowly through the groves though...but there are still bit open areas out there as well. It wont move into temecula, the wind blows it to the west/southwest. Theyve got air support here now also.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:54 AM:what are the latest updates on the fallbrook fire that seems to be coming towards temecula?
Grace wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:54 AM:I'm in the bay area but my parents live in the Temecula Hills near Pechanga, anyone know the status in that area?
Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:01 AM:The area around Pechanga is fine and also on 79 south through town is ok. Just white smoke seen from the Pala area.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:03 AM:what are the updates on the fallbrook and temecula fires and the containments and directions etc PLEASE
Vanessa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:04 AM:To the woman from Harrah's, did they all get out? My concern is Valley View Casino where my fiance and friends are 4 miles from there. I can't seem to get updates on that area of the fire.
To Grace wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:05 AM:The Pechanga area is fine for now. There are no threats at this time.
Laurie W. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:08 AM:I just spoke to my dad. He is on Calle Vista Lejos, above Via Santa Rosa and says that for the most part the Rosa fire seems to have died down a lot. This is not the Fallbrook fire, but a series of 6 fires that were started in De Luz last night by an arsonist. He said that it was pretty scary for a while but that now the firefighters did an amazing job in knocking it down. He did see cars out in front of his house but isn't sure if Rancho California Road up into De Luz is open. I will post again when he gives me another update.
TemBrookian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:08 AM:Grace, Pechanga is okay. The fire is over the ridge and moving more towards Fallbrook. I hope everyone is alright.
jefferson wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:10 AM:We're watching water dropping helicopeters in the industrial area by Zevo drive in Temecula. the fire looks like it's closed in a bit. A couple of companies that butt up against the foothills already have evacuation plans in place.
Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:12 AM:Sky is very calm here (eerily). All around smoke. Unless the fires skip through Santa Rosa Plateau (La Cresta/Bear Creek areas) we should be fine. It is the home nestled on the sides of the hills and within the hills that could be affected. So far, Temecula and Murrieta FD's are doing awesome jobs containing smaller fires. Murrieta fire is out. I do not see a fire in Copper Canyon. That may be false.
Temec wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:13 AM:all of Temecula to the east of the 15 is fine. Late last night there were some small flame heads that you could see over the ridge. I watched for a couple of hours, and before leaving, the flames were pretty much gone. In my opinion, Temecula is safe for now.
Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:15 AM:Sky is very calm here (eerily). All around smoke. Unless the fires skip through Santa Rosa Plateau (La Cresta/Bear Creek areas) we should be fine. It is the home nestled on the sides of the hills and within the hills that could be affected (however, we are thus far free from fires). So far, Temecula and Murrieta FD's are doing awesome jobs containing smaller fires. Murrieta fire is out. I do not see a fire in Copper Canyon. That may be false.
jeannie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:18 AM:my prayers are with you all my home is in Fallbrook and my husband, 2 dogs and cat got out last night but Im in Calgary, Canada and thank you for this blog, its hard to be this far away from home at a time like this
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:19 AM:smoke and sand and the winds are picking up in temecula, what is the status of the surrounding fires please.
C wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:23 AM:Does anyone know how far the fire is from morning ridge apartments?
Frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:25 AM:I have not seen ANYTHING that says we have to keep all roads clear, just freeways. Just because your hubby is a fireman, doesn't make you an expert. I have not seen or heard of any firetrucks that were not able to respond to the fire because kids were going to school. What amazes me is that you think it is common sense to stay off of every road. How does that calculate? Try to be realistic in your thoughts and comments instead of cute little sayings. I go back to what I said before. Keep your child home if you don't want them at school. They are YOUR CHILDREN and you can keep them home or send them to school. It is a COMMON SENSE choice.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:25 AM:winds are really picking up again temperature is rising and humidity is in the single didgits and it just seems like the fires are really bigger and far more out of control than anyone really belives or has planned for until it is too late and then it all seem so inadequate.
Brett wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:27 AM:We are at Sandia/Carancho in DeLuz. Can see smoke coming from Via Vaquero fire over hill.
Stephanie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:32 AM:Is there a fire on the other side of the hills by Pechanga??
Ynez in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:34 AM:New smoke spotted outside my office window facing De Luz near Temecula. Appears to be just above Rancho California Rd. Was talking to someone and we both looked back to see the white plume go up and expand while a helicopter flew over. Not sure if this is old smoke or a new flare up.
Glenn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:36 AM:I live out behind the French Valley Airport. Winds are calm out here. I can see the smoke to the south and west.
Sam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:44 AM:I own an avocado grove on Calle Cuero. It's only about a mile west of where they say the Rosa fire started. Any way of finding out the exact area that burned?
Elena wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:45 AM:My mother has no home owner's insurance; does anyone know if any homes on Mission and Hillcrest Lane in Fallbrook were affected?
denise wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:45 AM:to vanessa at 1004am i have not heard about valley view casino unfortunately. my friends are still in the harrahs casino and they said it was still burning around it. im trying to locate people and update asap
Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:47 AM:Need new update on Pala fire. Seems to be thicker white smoke but not reaching the Redhawk area.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:47 AM:I just taalked to a fire sherif and one of the fires is over the canyon from me yet they aren't evacutating us what does this make any sense?
lnz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:47 AM:Husband tried to go to work today in Pala Valley off of the 76, about 7 miles east of pechanga casino. He saw huge flames and fire heading west through that valley. Was forced to evacuate. I am assuming this is the fire that started in the La Jolla Res.??? We need more info, we're left out in the dark!
Near Pechanga Casino wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:47 AM:First of all, Frank, quit posting...this is not a forum for for you to argue with people. If people want to make a post, we don't need you to rebut them. Enough said on that. Hopefully, Frank will not post anything other than specific news which is what we are all here looking for. I drove down near Pechanga Casino past Great Oak High School about 30 minutes ago. There is white smoke coming through the canyon heading towards Great Oak High School at this time. My daughter goes to school there but we are being told by the school that they are keeping students indoors except for when they need to pass from class to class.
Stephanie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:49 AM:Palomar mountain is a ways from Pechanga, does that fire by Harrah's seem to be heading towards Temecula?
lnz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:50 AM:about Valley View casino. That is where my husband saw the fire and it was directly in that area. Wish I knew more info
Ynez in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:51 AM:Quite windy here on Ynez & Overland. About 60% of the maximum winds yesterday, but still quite gusty. I'd say gusts are 20-30 mph with a sustained wind of 10-15 mph. Still coming directly out of the east/southeast, though, which is not good for the Poomacha Fire just over the hill from Pechanga/Redhawk (which I understand is out of control). Winds may push that up the hill and over/down to I-15 just above Temecula Creek Inn (speculation). White smoke is already leaning further and further down I-15 towards Temecula. Work is pretty empty today. Plume of white smoke I reported a moment ago above Rancho California (De Luz) is now gone. Two helicopters appeared to dump in that area.
Tracey wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:51 AM:My Friend is staying with me here in Temecula she left her home at 3pm Fallbrook yesterday.We heard the 15 was open so took a drive to see what we could find out and all roads to Fallbrook are closed. The 15 was still burning on both sides in the area of Rainbow. I believe they may shut down the 15 again so much smoke we could barley see.
Angela wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:54 AM:I was able to get back up the hill with proper I.D. On the way back up the hill I was able to get a view of the fire. No visible flames, I did see several hot spots in the groves though. As we came up Coroncho via De Luz Rd., I did see what looked like new dark smoke a few ridges over. What concerns me is that I have heard an amber can travel for a couple miles.
to shell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:56 AM:From Bob. The channel I am refering to is a UHF station at 27 on the UHF dial, KZSW. The studio is in Temecula new I15 and Rancho California. It is on the air and has been all night. I think it's broadcast antenna is in Murrieta. They gave out free UHF antenna when they started up. They are on Verizon Cable at 27 in Murrieta. I do not know whether they are on Time Warner. It could be at any different number on other cable systems if they carry it.
Diane & Kjeld wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:57 AM:We live on Calle Mateo in De Luz, we packed and are ready to go, still waiting, the sky is clear, lots of wind, there is smoke to the southwest, have not seen any flames or smoke closer to us, which would be El Prado and Calle Mateo.
Redhawk. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:58 AM:Im located right by Toni Tobin Elementary school and could see smoke coming from the canyons. Wasn't there this morning. Is this a new fire? If anyone has any info, I would greatly appreciate it. I have small children and elderly.. really scared.
lnz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:00 AM:i live in southern most part of tem./ redhawk area. starting to get really smokey here! guessing its coming over the hills through by the high school and homes at the base of these hills
Frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:00 AM:Toni, if you have to ask yourself that question, it is time to do what is called "self-evacuation". This is when you see or hear about fire close by and don't wait for the police and fire to tell you to do something that COMMON SENSE tells you to do. In response to Near Pechanga, Frank can post. This is a blog not China.
heidilinn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:01 AM:Just some info for those worried about DeLuz, a friend of mine who is in DeLuz on the Camp Pendleton boundry was just forced to evacuate.
in temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:01 AM:can someone give a short list of the fires surrounding temecula, and about how close they are? there are so many being talked about on here, that i'm losing track, and i dont know who is safe, or if no one is going to be safe soon
Bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:02 AM:Confirming another post at 10:51. I heard on UHF 27, KZSW a few minutes ago that I15 is open now but could close again anytime. There are hotspots near I15 near Mission Road, and somewhere else down that way.
wine country wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:03 AM:so what fires are surrounding temecula? is there one by hemet? and one by pechanga? is wine country in any potential danger?
Update wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:04 AM:http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/10/23/news/top_stories/9_55_1310_23_07.txt
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:07 AM:I really don't think people should be given only 15 mins of ecavuationtime and kept out of the know we should be kept up to the very latest so we can best protect ourselves. there are people stranded in areasbecause of this oractice of "need to know" as if the people whose lives are at risk can't make a valid decision to leave early.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:10 AM:there are both ambers that can travel for several miles then creepers that travel beneath that are not always visible, until it is sparked by wind then will flare up but the distance of a creeper is generally far less.
Paul wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:12 AM:Channel 27 is KZSW, and they are not on local time warner. They are on Verizon Fios TV if you get that.
Temecula Resident wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:13 AM:Dude... Frank, you don't need to be rebutting everyone's comment. If you're not in danger of this fire, then so be it. But everyone who come on here are looking for news and updates, so just shut for mouth and get a life.
NC Times Update wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:13 AM:De Luz fire 70 percent surrounded By: BRIAN ECKHOUSE, PETE ZANKO and JOHN HUNNEMAN - Staff Writers Murrieta fire extinguished; Fallbrook fire is far more devastating Southwest Riverside County largely was spared the devastation of the fires ravaging Southern California -- until Monday evening. Beginning around 11 p.m. Monday, three blazes within a mile of each other tore through the De Luz hills, just west of Temecula. By dawn, it had spread to 325 acres, said Cheri Patterson, a spokeswoman with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Authorities suspect arson was the cause, a Temecula police officer said just after 4:30 a.m. "It really didn't start from embers," he said, referring to the fires that ripped through parts of San Diego County. "That's for sure." The collective De Luz blaze -- referred to as the Rosa Fire -- was 70 percent surrounded as of 7:40 a.m. Tuesday, Patterson said. No injuries or damage to structures was reported, she said. About 200 firefighters were fighting the blaze. "We were very fortunate," Patterson said. "The winds were very cooperative overnight." Despite the fire, the southbound lanes of Interstate 15 -- which had been closed south of Temecula Parkway on Monday -- have reopened through Escondido. In neighboring Fallbrook, a fire there had burned about 1,500 acres by 6:50 a.m. Numerous homes have been lost, though authorities hadn't released exact numbers or even approximations. Fire officials reported heavy damage to homes in the Valley Oaks Trailer Park. There also has been damage to condos at Pala Mesa Village, and some damage to the Pala Mesa Resort Clubhouse and the Cal-Fire Red Mountain Station. Three injuries have been reported so far in Fallbrook, including to one firefighter. None are serious. Yadia Perez, 18, of Fallbrook was at the Unocal station on Jefferson Avenue and Old Town Front Street after midnight Tuesday waiting to hear back from two friends who were trapped in De Luz. They had left Fallbrook to get away from the fire there, only to encounter the blaze in the hills west of Temecula. De Luz residents who fled their community Monday evening are being allowed back into their homes if they show identification at a police checkpoint on Rancho California Road at Business Park Drive, authorities said. Before dawn, only authorities were being allowed into the hills. Sherman Otto, 60, of Temecula was among those early Tuesday morning who were denied access at the police checkpoint at Rancho California and Business Park. Otto said he manages a 60-plus-acre ranch in the hills near Fallbrook, and hoped to get to a family and two dogs who live on that expanse. He didn't know if they were safe or trapped. "I'm kind of edgy right now," Otto said. "There's a lot at stake." Patterson praised the residents of De Luz for their cooperation: Voluntary evacuations were called for last night, and between 50 and 100 residents left. Many of them ended up at the American Red Cross shelter at the Temecula Community Recreation Center at Ronald Reagan Sports Park on Rancho Vista Way, east of Ynez Road. By 6:30 a.m. Monday, almost 220 evacuees from the Rosa fire and a more devastating blaze in Fallbrook had fled to the shelter, said Lynda Shoemaker, the shelter's manager. The shelter has a capacity of 250. "We're not filled yet," Shoemaker said. "We have enough cots for everyone." About 25 evacuees of the Rosa fire arrived at the shelter by 12:30 a.m. Tuesday, she said. A steady stream of De Luz evacuees has checked in since. The shelter also is serving as a temporary home to pets and large animals, Shoemaker said. Animal Friends of the Valleys is managing those two staging areas outside the center at the sports park. About 3 a.m. in Murrieta, a small fire broke out on a plot of land along Jackson Avenue between California Oaks Road and Monroe Avenue, observers said. Several trees caught fire there, but it was quickly extinguished by firefighters, said a security guard at The Colony. It's unclear how many acres were consumed by the Murrieta fire. It's also unknown what caused it. That rapid response to the Murrieta blaze staved off the evacuation of 59 elderly residents from the Murrieta Gardens Assisted Living Center. Medical technician William Mendez began preparing to move residents, some of whom have Alzheimer's. "They did a pretty good job -- the fire department, the police," Mendez said. "The Fire Department comes here pretty often to prepare us, so we knew what to do." Public schools in Southwest Riverside County -- not including Fallbrook, which is in San Diego County --- were open Tuesday though the K-12 districts planned to keep their students indoors to avoid inhaling smoke or particles from the multiple fires. Stay tuned to this Web site for further updates throughout the day. -- Contact staff writer Brian Eckhouse at (951) 676-4315, Ext. 2626, or beckhouse@californian.com. Contact staff writer Pete Zanko at (951) 676-4315, Ext. 2634, or pzanko@californian.com. Contact staff writer John Hunneman at (951) 676-4315, Ext. 2603, or jhunneman@californian.com.
TVHS mom wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:14 AM:FYI - Temecula Valley High students have been told that they are to leave school @ 2:30 as the scholl will become an evacatuation center. All after school activities/games have been cancelled. Calls are going out on automatic line - but if the call comes to your home and you are at work - you won't know your kid needs a 2:30 pickup.
Dan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:15 AM:Heidilinn, could you give a more exact location? i have a ranch near De Luz Rd and Harris truck Trail.
Mark in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:15 AM:A good site for Temecula info is here: http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Fire+Information.htm
Debi wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:15 AM:The 15 fwy is clear from the 52 on North my brother just drove here from Point Loma. Made it just fine.
Winchester Road Near Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:15 AM:Anyone have the latest on the fire just south of Temecula? We're off Winchester, just east of Murrieta. The band of smoke seems to be getting thicker and moving easterly.
Rosie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:16 AM:I'm on the Temecula Creek: 79S/Temecula Pkwy between Margarita and Jedediah Smith. For the last half hour, I've been watching fresh smoke from SE (Redhawk area?) heading towards 79S. Thanks for any new information.
John wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:20 AM:I just got off the phone to a friend in De Luz. He was asked to evacuate but he chose to stay the night. He says the fire is still to the southeast of him and there are three fires in the area and all thought to be arson.
CITY OF TEMECULA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:21 AM:FOR CONTINUAL UPDATES ON THE FIRE: http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Fire+Information.htm
Kay wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:21 AM:To the staff at nctimes - Thank you all for this forum and your updates overnight. As many have said, this is the best current local info I've been able to find. For your own information, on www.sdcountyemergency.com they posted a map of the fire area and evacuation areas in sd county as of 5:30 am this morning. They are also posting evacuation updates there. Best Regards
Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:24 AM:I just spoke with Great Oak High School. They are taking a wait and see now. I am going to go get my child now. Please give any info.
lnz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:26 AM:I know San Diego does the reverse 911 to either put you on stand-bye or to inform you to evacuate, does temecula do this? What type of alert system do we have here?
Stephanie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:27 AM:Does this mean there is a fire heading towards Temecula? I live in the condos on the 79 and right by a brushy wash area, this concerns me!
Michelle wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:28 AM:My husband has been watching the news faithfully, and they are not even talking about Fallbrook or De Luz and Temecula areas. Any current info or links would be appreciated! We need to know what is going on in Temecula, we want to be prepared, somebody out there know anything about the Temecula fires please post!!
Laura wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:29 AM:I just want to say thanks to the NC Times, I live in Fullerton but my family and friends are affected by these fires and there's virtually no information avaliable to the public on this!
BRETT wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:29 AM:TEMECULA FIRE: FROM CALFIRE.ORG Rosa Fire NearTemecula Riverside County This fire has burned 100 acres. 100 residences near Temecula are threatened. 192 firefighters are assigned. Roca Fire Information Line (951) 940-6985
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:30 AM:what is the latest reports on the deluz fire and the fallbrook fires isn't there another fire west of temecula in the canyon below pujol?
Maria wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:30 AM:Can someone please tell me if the fires on the Rainbow area are getting closer to the border patrol check point and if an evacuation is planned?My parents leave down the road and I am concerned.
BRETT wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:33 AM:GREAT NEWS. CALLED CALFIRE PHONE NUMBER. 400 ACRES BURNED. 70% CONTAINED! 11:30am 10-23-07
Avocadojoe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:What the latest news? I was told this morning at about 8:30am that we might be able to go up to Via Santa Rosa by 12:00noon. I live in the Wine Country and I am watching my house since it is VERY windy here too. I want to go up to check on our avocado groves and our neighbors' homes. It was still closed this morning even though Rancho California was open and they were letting property owners back up to the hill on Rancho California.
Redhawk wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:35 AM:The smokes coming from the canyon seems to be getting a darker shade of gray with a bit of orange. Is that the fire coming from LaJolla Indian Reservation? How fast is it spreading?
Vanessa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:37 AM:Re Valley View Casino. All patrons and staff are evacuated except management. The fire is about 2 miles from them but they are staying and Fire Dept. is using this as a base for now. Fire was directed around Harrah's down the road and they are safe now. It is now going to be used as an evacuation facility as the fire has moved on.
Winchester Road Near Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:39 AM:Sounds like what I'm looking at (southeast of Temecula) is the Rosa Fire. The Temecula city website Mark posted above provided the latest information on it. The site isn't real time like this one. Thanks NC Times for the blog. Please all, keep your observations coming.
jms wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:39 AM:It's hard to tell how far the smoke really is, but the S79 redhawk area is starting to get smoky
To INZ wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:42 AM:temecula does have a reverse 911 system. murrieta does not however
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:43 AM:the bloggers on the website are doing a better job of informing the people of what is going on, we have our lives and homes at risk. The fire fighters and police are working and the offical websites are vague to prevent mass hysteria.
Lindsay wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:43 AM:Where is the ROSA Fire? Is that the De Luz area or near Great oak area?
Matt wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:44 AM:There is a fire in between the DeLuz fires of last night (Rosa fire) and the existing Fallbrook (Rice fire). It appears to be in the Santa Margarita river valley. Several aircraft are working on it. Fallbrook fire continues to move north/west. Winds are still strong.
chaparral student wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:45 AM:Hi I'm a student in class at chaparral high school in temecula. I'm on my cell. We currently have not heard word. We are being asked to stay in. However a heavy smoke is in the air and we can defintly smell the smoke from class to class.
Derick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:46 AM:I am from Fallbrook, near Bonsall, does anyone have any information on how far west the fire has traveled?
Frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:48 AM:Alright, I will "shut for mouth". Work on the vocabulary "dude". Pala evacuees are coming to Temecula. That is why they are using Great Oak. Temecula is not in danger everyone. Breath, relax.
lnz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:49 AM:when my husband attempted to go to work this morning he was caught in the line of fire. He takes pechanga prkwy out towards Pala Casino. This is now the fire we are seeing the smoke of coming over the hills of South Temecula. I believe this is fire is the Poomacha Fire Highway 76, Pauma Valley San Diego County
Vanessa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:51 AM:The City of Temecula's website is exceedingly sketchy and has been changed one time since yesterday morning...doubtful that it is up-to-the-minute current. It seems we are on our own, lets just keep each other and our neighbors apprised. I also have noticed the new brown smoke out back of Nighthawk Rd. coming from behind the hill. No clue if this is new or blowing in from other fires. Anyone know?
Rosie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:52 AM:Channel 3 on TimeWarner (the Temecula channel) has updated the posting at 11:45: "The City is monitoring fire activity. Currently no imminent threat to the City. DeLuz Fire Update: 411 acres burned of the Rosa Fire with 50% containment. Expected containment at 6pm tomorrow. No structures lost w/ 230 fire personnel assigned. etc."
A wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:56 AM:Is the 15 now open or not? I've check several websites and each has a different answer. Does anyone know for sure?
lnz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:59 AM:Poomacha Fire Highway 76, Pauma Valley San Diego County This is the smoke we are seeing getting darker and closer in the souther part of Temecula
Temecula Creek Condos on 79s between Redhawk and Pechanga wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:59 AM:For the last hour, white smoke coming over the hills from SE (Redhawk) towards Temecula. Now brown smoke and black smoke; and fire engines over the last 5 minutes. Any news?
Sam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:02 PM:Still trying to find out any information about the exact area that has burned in the Rosa fire. I don't live on my grove so can't get up Rancho Califoria Road. Any info about Calle Cuero would be greatly appreciated.
steve wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:04 PM:ive been refreshing the temecula city page almost as often as this one, and it always says no imminent danger to temecula, but below that, it normally just mentions the de luz fire being 50% contained, but then sometimes it changes and it says that they are making mandatory evacuations in fallbrook. i wouldnt trust the temecula city site, it doesnt seem to be completely on top of things at the moment.
heidilinn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:05 PM:my girlfriend lives by the old deluz gate connecting camp pendleton to deluz. She received the reverse 9-1-1 call and is on her way up here to temecula. I am not very familiar with her neck of the woods, I will try to find out exact locations.
Bill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:05 PM:I am out of state on business, thank you all for your updates, you are all such wonderful neighbors
Joel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:06 PM:Looking from Redhawk it looks like the active, moving smoke with an orange glow is all the way to the East. The fire that was in South West Temecula doesn't seem as active as the one to the East..I guess this is the one near Pala?
Bill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:08 PM:I am out of state on business, thank you all for your updates, you are all such wonderful neightbors
off Ynez wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:08 PM:I look right out on the mountain. The white smoke has been replaced by an orange glow, black smoke and a large, heavy duty smoke plume going straight up. That doesn't look like just a little smoke blowing in from a distant fire. Plus, the wind is howling outside. The fire looks like it has gained in strength. This media black out on Temecula is frustrating. You'd think that the City's site would be current.
Doddi wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:08 PM:The smoke back of Butterfield is really smoking up fast. My husband went to the end of Butterfield to view the fire and said its about 2 ridge lines away. To early to worry but be prepared.I live off Butterfield and Night hawk and I am packing to be prepared. Just in case you do not want to leave it to the last minute.
Avocadojoe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:08 PM:For De Luz fire locations (Rosa Fire) Just go to Google map and input in , Via Santa Rose, Via Horca and Via Vasquero. From what I heard, the fires started at 1) Via Santa Rose / Via Horca, 2) Via Vasquero / Via Barranca, 3) Via Peregrino That's the main reason that Via Santa Rosa is still close off to the traffic although Rancho California is open to the property owners.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:09 PM:huge huge plume of smoke just arosesouth west of temecula and the winds have really picked up. what is the status of this fire is it a new one?
Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:10 PM:Channel 3 has had the same info since yesterday. Everyone stick to this site!!
Winchester Road Near Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:10 PM:Poomacha Fire? Or Rosa Fire? It's getting more ominous. Thick plume of smoke like fresh vegetation burning. Any official information on this blaze?
Curtis wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:12 PM:Rosa fire is west of Temecula. The big smoke column to the southeast is probably the Poomacha Fire. Info about it is very hard to come by.
Jim wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:12 PM:There is supposed to be a gourd festival at the Welburn Gourd Farm 40635 De Luz Rd on the De Luz/Murietta Rd, Fallbrook, this weekend (October 26-27). Is it still happening?
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:12 PM:I live in an apartment complex with automatic water sprinklers would it help to turn themon to saturate the ground for some kind of preventative measures?
Marie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:12 PM:"Does anyone know if they need any donated supplies at the Temecula CRC??
Lauri Lockwood, The Californian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:13 PM:Updated reporting on this fire is posted at http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/10/23/news/top_stories/9_55_1310_23_07.txt Updates will continue throughout the day.
Anonymous wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:14 PM:What i would like to know is, how f'd are we? im on clinton keith and it looks like d day out there, so is it close or what. wth is going on:(
Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:14 PM:No, nothing in Redhawk or anywhere now. Still smoke coming from over Palomar Mt. Not as dark and orange as before.
Todd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:14 PM:New huge cloud of smoke just erupted over Palomar. Orange is clearly visible at the base of the smoke near the hill. This went up in just a few minutes and is now a towering cloud. Obviously this thing just got much more intense. This must be the La Jolla Indian Reservation fire. The smoke is still blowing towards Fallbrook but wisps are coming down towards Temecula. Any updates on this fire?
Marie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:15 PM:We live across winchester from Fenchvally Airport and there is a huge Plume of smoke a couple hills behind the airport.. any news on which fire that one is?
Ryan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:15 PM:Someone should let us know if temecula is in danger. I dont want to know at the last minute.
Annabelle is Hawaii wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:16 PM:Any news on what streets in Fallbrook had fires? I have a friend that live on Vantage St. in Fallbrook. I know she evacuated but have not heard from her since yesterday.
Winchester Road Near Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:18 PM:Dialing 211, I spoke with an operator, who shared this website: Informriverside.org. The operator said been receiving lots of calls about the growing smoke just southeast of Temecula.
Butterfield stage rd. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:18 PM:to DODDI @12:08PM: I believe were in the same area. the smoke turned into an orange glow quite fast. I too am packed and prepared. Really dont know what to expect. Lets keep each other updated.
Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:19 PM:See update on Cannel 3 Time Warner. Rosa, same as Pala fire is 50% contained.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:19 PM:thanks bloggers for being there or here this is a very frightening experience I went through the Laguna fire, now this! I just want the winds to lie down the humidity to go up the fire to go down whats so hard about that?
Mike wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:19 PM:The black smoke appears to be getting thicker and closer to Old Town from the DeLuz Fire
Murrieta Mom wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:20 PM:I see that one too, Toni - is that the Aguanga fire blazing up again???
steve wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:20 PM:regarding frank, just ignore him. this isnt a place for a net battle. just ignore whatever negative comments he says, and dont respond to him, unless he has something useful to tell us
Patrick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:21 PM:News update on Ch8 - Fallbrook fire remains active on all 3 fronts; south, West, North, but no structures lost since last update (approx. 1 hr ago). North front into SM reserve is most active. So fire is still going in town, and near 76, and advancing slowly in SM Reserve area, but not as fast as last night or early this AM. No comment on when people can get back into the area.
Janice wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:21 PM:I'm just above TVHS and can see a large plume of black and red smoke from the top of the mountain just between Pechanga and Rainbow. It looks like there has been a flare up of fire in Rainbow. Does anyone know for sure of this fires in Rainbow are headed North??? Are there any firefighters or planes left to deal with this?
seashell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:24 PM:Frank -- Keep up with the info. You make sense to me. I live in Wildomar, but work in LA -- should I start for home? I don't know what to do?
Annabelle in HI wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:24 PM:Any news from Temecula? My brother is there and I can't seem to be able to get a hold of him either.
KIMMMM. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:24 PM:Okay FRANK. Well concerning the topic of our safety. You really have no place to be telling people what is or isn't their natural common sense. Get over yourself frank.
Fay wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:25 PM:You are right something just erupted and now is spewing black smoke over the mountian south of temecula parkway
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:27 PM:the red cross is accepting bottled water and gatorade. the salvation army is accepting clothing donations go to channel 3 in the temecula area for more information
Jake wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:27 PM:If anyone finds more news about the Temecula fire(s) please let us know.
Teacher @ Great Oak wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:28 PM:At 12pm we were told the fire is not close enough to our campus to be of major concern, though if winds shift the message may change. As of 12:27 student are at lunch and have been encouraged to eat indoors. There is a lot of blue sky in most directions, though we can see the darkness to the south of us.
momof5 wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:29 PM:Does anyone know if Chapparel HS sports (v-ball) have been cancelled or not? The first game is a home one at 3:15.
KIMMMM. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:29 PM:Okay FRANK. Well concerning the topic of our safety. You really have no place to be telling people what is or isn't their natural common sense. Get over yourself frank.
Therease wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:30 PM:Info regarding i15: open, per dot.gov: This highway information is the latest reported as of Tuesday, October 23, 2007 at 12:28 . I 15 [SAN DIEGO & IMPERIAL CO.'S] NO TRAFFIC RESTRICTIONS ARE REPORTED FOR THIS AREA. [SAN BERNARDINO & RIVERSIDE CO.'S] THE NORTHBOUND & SOUTHBOUND CONNECTORS TO EASTBOUND I 210 /IN FONTANA/ (SAN BERNARDINO CO) IS REOPENED A HIGH WIND ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT FROM THE JCT OF SR 91 (RIVERSIDE CO) TO THE JCT OF I 215 (SAN BERNARDINO CO) - TRAVEL IS PROHIBITED FOR CAMPERS, TRAILERS OR PERMIT LOADS
Jan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:30 PM:I can see the smoke from the South/South East hills from my house in redhawk. It is hot an windy. How do we kow if anyone is working on this? Do we have reverse 911?
Redhawk Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:30 PM:Now white smoke rising. I do not see any ashes fallinghere in Redhawk. I live in Redhawk with a view of Palomar Mt.
David B. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:30 PM:I work in Anaheim and will be driving home at 1:30pm today. Can anybody tell me if the 15 freeway south is open to Murrietta Hot Springs Road? Also are there any fires up around Lake Skinner? Thank you.
Lynn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:31 PM:Ryan, I dont belive we are at this point, the problem that I see it the winds and the fact that they might be blowing embers around.... to come here... and light up with out notice... I wish NC times would give us answers on this HUGE cloud of smoke!
Laurie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:32 PM:Dear Frank, What you see lacking in some in the way of common sense, you are far more lacking in common courtesy. Take your vacant comments off the blog and leave it for those who might support and comfort those in a frightening situation. Never in my life have I seen such disrespect and lack of compassion. I suppose you run the board the same way. Get a heart.
Bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:32 PM:I heard some news updates just now. Main source is the local UHF TV channel 27 in Temecula, KZSW, The other source is the "SD county emergency" web site. 1. The large cloud of smoke southeast of Temecula and Murrieta is from a fire called the La Jolla Indian Reservation fire that started there about 4:10 AM this morning. It has spread fast but is father away than it looks. The reservation is about 15 miles southwest of the Pala Casino on hwy 76. The fire is no doubt way out of the reservation now. The smoke seen rising from over the mountain looks like the fire is moving easterly., but maybe at ground level it may also be spreading out other ways. 2. Valley Center has been completely evacuated. . 3. Now they are saying the Pala Indian Resort was evacuated and not damaged but a mobile home park near there was burned up about noon today. 4. The Lawrence Welk Resort alongside of I15 is being evacuated because of a different fire coming over the mountain behind it FROM the east. That fire is believed have started from embers blown south from the Rainbow, Rice Canyon, Fallbrook fires that the firemen hoped were already out This fire is moving West. 5. 45 of these expensive Rancho Santa Fe homes burned up last night and 500 homes in Fallbrook. 6. The San Diego County emergency web site posted at 10:57 AM this morning says there is a mandatory evacuation of the portions of De Luz and Rainbow within San Diego County plus Rainbow. That seems odd because it sounds like residents are allowed to enter De Luz from Temecula. The remaining De Luz fire is moving west, so maybe that makes sense. 7. President Bush declared the area a federal emergency area and federal fire fighting airplanes came to the Miramar Air Station and went out fighting the fires already, and other federal help is enroute.
jp wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:32 PM:i work for abott and am off of zevo and winchester and there is a huge cloud of black and gray smoke south of here is this the de luz fire? which way is it moving?
Mellie Helen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:35 PM:To Marie@12:12 - CRC has what it needs. I just returned from the CRC; dropped off toys and books for kids. They sent the items across the street to Temecula Valley High School, as the CRC is now full and TVHS has opened up for evacuees (they mentioned that they may yet open another location as a 3rd evac site). At TVHS they said they will accept _only_ pre-packaged foods, preferably in bulk (although they did accept the toys & books we brought). Big issue is boredom and stress of those holed up there, so cards, games, things for people to do while waiting around are welcomed.
Lolo wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:37 PM:From a hill in North Murrieta, it looks like an atomic blast behind Mr. Palomar. Fingers of smoke are coming down the mountain on the north side toward Temecula. Can the local TV station start scrolling about this fire?
Donnie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:38 PM:This is not really the best way to get you info, seem like a lot of rumors and panic being spread. If you go to www.cityoftemecula.org you can get official info. It doesn't sound like were in trouble yet.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:40 PM:any news on when the winds will die down so maybe we can get a break what happened to the helicopters? what is the status of the fires surrounding temecula? Including the palomar and fallbrook fires please?
Gerard wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:40 PM:I live in redhawk. I can see smoke coming from the mountains to the South of my home. The smoke is getting worse. I believe this is the fire in Pala.
Todd in Redhawk wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:41 PM:Looks like the fire southeast of town must have hit some new fuel and really spiked up. The smoke from it is still blowing laterally from us towards Fallbrook so I don't think anyone in Temecula should be terribly concerned at the moment from this one. It is a spectacular column of smoke now though, very reddish-orange and high.
temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:42 PM:I see a lot of black smoke off in the hills behind French Valley Airport as well. I am in the Rancho Bella Vista subdivision off Murrieta Hot Springs and Pourroy and just drove down to the intersection with Murrieta Hot Springs to check it out. Does anyone know where this fire is at and if it is under control? It is in a different direction than the De Luz fire.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:45 PM:I think the fire just went into temecula right now but i am not forsure because of all the smoke it is in the southwest corner of highway 15
Sanam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:45 PM:I live next to Pechanga Casino all the way down next to those hills, I was just home on my lunch break and saw what seemed to be a small fire behind my house, now im looking at it out my window at work from Front street and im freaking out, its huge! someone tell me whats going on!
David wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:46 PM:I am wondering how the 15 freeway is from Orange County? Also are there any fires by Lake Skinner?
Matt wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:47 PM:I live and work in Temecula, and I just drove from one end of town to the other - there are no fires here. There is the Poomacha fire on the other side of the hill, and you can see large plumes of dark smoke which are coming from south/southeast of Pechanga Casino. There are no flames visible from any part of Temecula.
Wife wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:51 PM:To Momof5..so far nothing has been cancelled at Chaparral...my hubby is a Teacher there and from what I heard they are going to have the game indoors...but you could call the school to double check.
bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:51 PM:daughter works off hwy 79 in Redhawk and said she can see some flames now starting to come over the ridge from palomar.
Visiting from Hawaii wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:52 PM:We're supposed to be coming to Temecula for a baseball tournament tomorrow-we have 3 small children & I don't want to get trapped! Should we cancel our trip???
Ynez in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:52 PM:The new plume south/southeast of Temecula is the Poomacha Fire at the base of Palomar Mt. in the La Jolla Indian Reservation. The winds have picked up and appear to have shifted slightly from the southeast rather than direct east direction. The plumes over Rancho California are more flare-ups from the Rosa fire in De Luz, and in addition the slight shift in winds appears to be combining the smoke from the Poomacha, Rice, and Rosa fires making them appear much more ominous than before.
Matt wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:53 PM:David - no fires to the east of Temecula (Lake Skinner). 15 is open with light traffic.
Patty and Kaylee wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:53 PM:We live at corner of Sandia Creek and Via Vaquero Rd. Someone asked about Calle Cuero. We just drove to Calle Cresta using Calle Cuero. All is good there as of about 11:30 am and it looks like the fire is still over towards Santa Margarita River gourge, and It could be burning somewhere between Via Vaquero and Via Barranca, also Via Tornado, Via Santa Rosa but really not sure. A neighbor just called and said he drove to Reniassance estates and saw 3 big water drops at Via Tornado and that fire was just smoking with flames cut down quite a bit. Wind still seems to be blowing mostly West, SW?
John wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:53 PM:Yeah Gerard I live in Redhawk as well. Im watching the hills beacuse were the first ones to get hit. I hope they get that Pala fire out quick!!!
Matt wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:53 PM:if you have verizon tune to channel 27 its talking all about the local fires near temecula
Joel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:56 PM:Bob@12:32..you are THE MAN! Thanks for the info..keep us informed!
Doddi wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:56 PM:Hi I just drove to the end of Butterfield and it looks like its getting worse. I spoke to a neigbour and her husband is at the Palomar fire helping evacuate. I was told the fire is 7 miles out of the Great Oaks high school.
Dianna wrote on Oct 23, 2007 12:56 PM:I am also off Butterfield and Nighthawk. The fire is we see to the south is from the La Jolla Fire. We drove up Butterfield and the fire looks to be climbing the hillside, but is still 2 mountains away from Temecula. The good news for Redhawk, is the clearing of the grounds that has been done due to Morgan Hill and the easterly winds. I'm in no hurry to pack, but am keeping an eye on the fire closely.
susan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:02 PM:there is smoke creaping up on the la cresta hill from clinton kieth ... is that a fire? do i need to evacuate? i live right under the hill
Gerard in Redhawk wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:03 PM:I hope there are enough roads for everyone to get out of Temecula if needed. All I keep hearing about on the news is the San Diego and L.A. fires-- not too much infoI have direct TV and my local stations are L.A., so I am having a hard time finding good up to date info on the fires.
Annie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:03 PM:I am concerned about my ex and his family. His name is Alan Prouse. He lives in Murrieta just north of Temecula. Any information about him or that area would be greatly appreciated. I have been unable to contact him.
ANONYMOUS wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:06 PM:i live on clinton keith by vista highschool are we screwed in the next couple days??
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:06 PM:I think it is vital to get up todate information and preventative steps to take now what we can do now and not a last minute evacuation notice when all the roads will be jammed and people will be rightfully panicked. We deserve the right to know if and what we can do to protect our properties, to the very last minute.
Redhawk Area wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:07 PM:I see golfers playing golf on Redhawk Course and the smoke is going to the west. Let's not call the smoke"fire" and freak everyone out!!
Temecula Creek Condos (79S between Redhawk and Pechanga) wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:07 PM:New: the Fallbrook fire smoke is billowing up over the mountain located just west of 15 at 79S exit.
JR wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:09 PM:Paseo del Sol in Temecula (southeast of town, northeast of Pechanga). Pauma Valley/LaJolla Indian Reservation smoke column is thick on the other side of the large hill here (Palomar I think). Can't see flame, just direct smoke tower. DeLuz/Rancho California (Rosa?) smoke is also visible from this location, but I believe someone posted this fire is 100% contained. Repeat no flames visible in South Temecula/Redhawk, but unnerving seeing the the Palomar one on what seems like the other side of this ridge (mountain???)...smoke is coming into the valley. We've been very lucky here in Temecula so far that nothing, including Aguanga (great job guys!!!), has developed East of us.
Cali wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:09 PM:I just got back from driving from butterfield and 79, to rancho and ynez believe you me there is atleast 3 fires in the area. Redhawk area doesnt appear to be slowing down, from the time it took me to get from walmart to 79 and 15 fwy the smoke had filled the valley. One behide pechanga looks to be heading south towards the ocean. we do have stuff ready to load, but will be sitting it out until further notice from the 911 reverse. God speed!
Annie in NM wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:09 PM:I am concerned about my ex. Alan P. He lives in a subdivision at the NW corner of Winchester Blvd. and Rancho California Rd. Any information about that area would be appreciated.
Matt wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:11 PM:Annie - no need to worry, Temecula and Murrieta are very safe places right now. There are no fires anywhere within the city limits. The fires that are close by appear to be on a westerly track which should bypass both cities.
Sam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:12 PM:Thank you Patty and Kaylee. Very relived to know that Calle Cuero is ok. Now all I have to worry about is my daughter, son inlaw and grand daughter who live off of Butterfield and 79.
Bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:12 PM:For those persons with Verison Fios or Verison you can get current news from Temecula TV chanel 27 at 27 on your dial. Others can look at the posting above at 11:13 AM by three NCtimes reporters.
Elliot wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:13 PM:To David, no fires near skinner that i know of, route should be open for you to come home. Temecula is fine, always has been always will be!
Candice wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:14 PM:Annie, As far as I know there are no fire or any danger to the murrieta area. I am currently in Redhawk area / Temecula and have not heard or seen anything that direction.
paseo delsol wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:14 PM:i see a lot of smoke adn i see fire start to peak at teh top of the mountain east of 79 south exit from I 15.
ES wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:15 PM:Hi Annie I live in Murrieta and everything here is OK so far. There is smoke down south (De Luz) Area. I have not seen any smoke from Clinton Keith/La Cresta Area. Anybody have any updates on that?
Elliot wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:15 PM:REGARDING TEMECULA: Temecula is fine, there are no fires in the city or even close enough to be concerned yet, Distances may look decieving. Once you see flames commin down the freakin hill, then and only then should you be concerned!!
Lynn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:16 PM:Susan I live there to. I can see out my backyard the fire in DeLuz, it is really cooking. The smoke is going north west and I think that is what you are seeing. I know it looks like a new fire but I don't think so. Not from my vantage point which is looking over the valley to the south.
To mom of 5 wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:17 PM:TVHS students were told - via call to home and announcement at school that all games (indoor and outdoor are cancelled.) We were playing Great Oak today in vball and it is cancelled. I would call your school's athletic director.
TO: Annie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:19 PM:The Murrieta area is safe at this time. Most of the fire is south and west of Temecula.
Unknown wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:22 PM:Annie in NM, I am near Winchester and Rancho California. THere is no fire here. ONly visiable smoke from the many nearby fires. No sight of flames even.
JV in Deluz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:22 PM:Fire in DeLuz appears to be south of Carancho and Sandia Creek. Can anyone verify?
lynne wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:24 PM:It's so frustrating to find out that Temecula & it's neighboring cities don't seem to have any reliable source of information about what's going on in the area especially during this firestorms days.
Neal wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:24 PM:I'm in Rainbow Canyon Villages on the golf course, the smoke is much thicker from this angle and is growing higher over the mountain and i'm at the base. I took some pictures. There is more orange tint and dark grey now visible where before mostly white. I think preparation is always important.
frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:25 PM:Iwas just on the I 15 and the fire is burning from the Fallbrook are to the I 15 but the fire dept is on it.I am now sitting upstairs writing this message to let everyone know that the fire you see in Temecula next to Redhawk where I live is coming from the mountains east of Temecula but on the other side of the mountain,not on the Temecula side and the smoke is blowing towards Pechanga but it is only smoke.
Cynthia wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:27 PM:In Sonoma County CA, and just riveted to this site for news affecting family and friends. Amazed at all of you and impressed with the coverage on this site. You folks really put the UNITY in community. My prayers and best wishes to all (including Frank). Hang in there.
lucy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:29 PM:I live in the La/Cresta area and can see a lot of smoke southwest of us. Have they evacuated anyone in the La Cresta area yet?
drew wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:30 PM:elliot... please do not speak for everybody in temecula. i live in temecula and my home was evactuated. its not fair for others trying to find information when you say that THE ENTIRE temecula is okay. because its not. i live behind pechanga on the west and its not looking good over there. thanks.
Temecula Crk Condos (79S between Pechanga and Redhawk Pkwys) wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:31 PM:Now huge smoke plumes, white, brown, black from the W/SW, coming over the mountain by 15@79S.
Sara wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:33 PM:Does anyone know anything about how it is going in Valley Center? I know it has a "full evacuation" but is there any containment? Is the city of Valley Center in danger? Do we know if the wind is blowing with any significance down there?
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:33 PM:what is the containment of the delux fire there seems to be orange smoke from that direction again
mike wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:35 PM:exscuse me elliot. but dont speak for everyone when you say REGADING TEMECULA THERE FINE. because not all of it is. i live in temecula and my house was evactuated. its not fair to otehrs trying to seak information when you dont know what your talking about. thanks. i live behind pechanga on the west. dont speak for everyone elliot
Toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:36 PM:I'm in La Cresta ... I just came back from hiking up a south-facing ridge, and it appears the fire has not made it's way across the plateau into Murrieta. Winds still seem to be coming out of the northeast, so I think it's still burning toward the coast???
Sara wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:37 PM:Does anyone know anything about how things are in Valley Center? I know there has been a "full evacuation" but do we know anything else? Is the wind blowing hard down there? Do we know if the fire from the La Jolla res. is burning towards Valley Center proper?
cerena wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:39 PM:this is very badd we need to take the hoses and we need to help where not all disabled we need to help keep these fires out!if you can please help them out and grab the hoses and tell them your there to help!!!!!!!!!!
John wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:40 PM:How is the air quality in Temecula? Anyone know if sports team practices have been cancelled?
Sara wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:41 PM:Does anyone know anything about how the city of Valley Center is doing? I know there was a full evacuation, but does anyone have information about where the fire is currently? Is it still heading towards Valley Center?
seashell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:43 PM:Frank -- Keep up with the info. You make sense to me. I live in Wildomar, but work in LA -- should I start for home? I don't know what to do?
ChiefK wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:43 PM:Any news on the Benton rd area? Heard there is fires out there. Thanks
ChiefK wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:45 PM:Any news on the Benton rd area? Heard there is fires out there. Thanks
Maria in Oceanside wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:46 PM:Received txt msg from KNBC - Mandatory evacuation issued for La Jolla Reservation residents. People should go to Borrego Springs. Affected by Poomacha Fire.
Paul in Winchester wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:49 PM:Fire is getting set to come over the mountain off rancho California Road and De Luz. Huge plumes of smoke and I see red flames shooting at least 100 feet in the air. No air tankers at all. Probably the one the CFD has in Hemet are away in Fallbrrok, San Diego and or Riverside/Orange County. Here we go again-our firefighting equipment is gone! Does anyone remember the Sage Fire? I am checking the fire every 15 minutes and the wind is getting stronger and stronger. It can only get worse.
JJ 06 wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:50 PM:i just heard the fire is coming up over the hill towards pechanga res.? anyone know if this is true?
Vanessa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:52 PM:Sara, re Valley Center. It was fully evacuated. I just spoke to my fiance at a casino there. He says the firefighters told him the worst is over, but still putting out brush fires. By that, I don't know if they mean the fire as a whole or the threat to their specific area. I don't know about property damage just that the fire went around Harrah's Casino and now Valley View Casino. I'll try to get more info. the next contact I make, which will be shortly.
Shell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:52 PM:My husbands co-worker live's in valley center and he was being evacuated early this morning. Whats the latest on the Temecula fires anyone know?
Sanam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:52 PM:I live right next to Great Oak High School in Temecula across from Pechanga, are we being evacuated?
.John wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:53 PM:In the South West Temecula, I recently saw a helicopter flying around towards the Palomar Mountain, Border line of Pechanga Reservation by GOHS, what is the current status on this fire?
Christina wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:54 PM:Sara, A friend of mine was evacuated from Valley Center after his neighbors home burned down. I do not know the specifics, but I know that at least parts of Valley Center have been evacuated.
sds wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:55 PM:Any info regarding De Luz area of Via Vaquero and Calle Pintoresca?
Vanessa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:57 PM:Sara--Update on Valley Center. My SO talked to the fire chief who is on there property right now. He says, basically, they can't control the fire due to the high winds, so they are letting it burn and when it reaches structures, they defend the structure. They have managed to keep the fires from several structures, however, black smoke was seen once which usually indicates a structure burning (apparently). This isn't a lot of help, but at least no human injury or fatality.
Bill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 1:58 PM:Any news on pop warner football practice? Should be cancelled in Temecula!
Near Pechanga Casino wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:00 PM:I live in the Rainbow Canyon Village area in southern Temecula. There is a lot of smoke visible over the mountain to the south but NO FLAMES ARE VISIBLE at this time. The smoke is evidently blowing in from the Poomacha fire near the La Jolla Indian Reservation. It is 2 ridgelines away (approximately 5 - 7 miles to the southeast). The winds are easterly keeping it on the backside of the mountain. If the winds stay the same and doesn't shift to blow from the south, we should be OK.
T wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:00 PM:Paul, I feel your frustration but do you really think we are supposed to hoard our resources just in case we need them? the firefighters are tapped out as it is, lets be supportive, not critical!
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:03 PM:people were evacuated in Temecula, the fire has change course due to the winds. they are coming from the south west now. what is the update? it is cresting the hill over looking Pujol and the community center.
anonymous wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:06 PM:The poomacha fire is not in pala. it is just very smoky. As of now, Pala is not on fire.
Up on the hill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:10 PM:Ok, watch out with what you see, I am in La Cresta, the large black smoke is not at the edge of temecula, it justs looks much closer from down the hill. i over by de luz but way west of he 15. looks like the fallbrook fire.
LaAlba/Winchetser wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:11 PM:I live 2 lights down from Benton road and i don't see anything to the east!I don't have a vantage point looking west of winchester.
Lynn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:11 PM:Just listening to channel 27 local Temecula News station. Fire Captain said DeLuz fire is 50% contained and should be fully contained by this evening. Gave a phone number for Riverside county fire info. 951/940-6985. He said smoke in Temecula coming from Fires outside of Temecula.
cali wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:11 PM:just drove by the temecula community center and about 10 fire trucks are there, along with redcross trucks. I'm home now have the flames changed direction and heading into town?
David wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:13 PM:Temecula Update Please Which way is the wind blowing? From the ocean (west) or toward the ocean (from the east). My sister lives in Harveston and I am concerned
Eddie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:14 PM:LINKS TO THE BEST MAPS. GOOGLE "KPBS FIRE MAP" GOOGLE "GOOGLE EARTH BLOG" He has it all
Frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:14 PM:Kimmmm I would agree with you but for the fact that a lot of people on this blog can't seem to figure out the obvious. Some people live in a bubble. Then when the big one hits they panic and can't find their way out of a paper sack. Do you see the problem here Kimmmmm?
Eddie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:15 PM:GOOGLE "Google Earth Blog" Bunch of maps GOOGLE "KPBS Fire Map" Best San Diego County Map
kitty kat wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:17 PM:Bill - check your associations website...As a rule of thumb if palomar conference cancels practice in san diego county - associations in the valley will follow suit (we are all one)
Rachael in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:18 PM:Does anyone know how fast the La Jolla fire is coming up Palomar Mountain, if at all. If it comes up Palmomar Mt. IT will come down as well and could threaten many homes in Redhawk.
Susan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:19 PM:Rosa fire west of Temecula 50 percent surrounded By: JOHN HUNNEMAN --- Staff Writer When updates are available, they will be posted at the bottom of this article. DE LUZ ---- Ground crews and a helicopter launched a full-scale assault on the stubborn "Rosa" fire Tuesday morning in an attempt to surround the blaze, keep it away from homes and stop its march toward the San Diego County line and the inferno currently battering Fallbrook. Fire crews from as far away as Nevada and the Coachella Valley arrived Tuesday morning in the hilly terrain ---- home to avocado groves and stately mansions ---- west of Temecula to fight the fire that began late Monday night. The blaze started as three separate fires about a mile apart, fire officials said. Crews were able to extinguish one of the fires early Tuesday morning, holding it to about 2 acres. However the other two fires, both burning along Via Vaquero, flared up Tuesday as the Santa Ana winds rose up shortly after daybreak. At noon Tuesday, more than 400 combined acres had been charred, much of it in the thick underbrush of the avocado groves. The fire was about 50 percent surrounded with full containment expected by Wednesday, said Jody Hagemann, spokeswoman for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. The cause of the fire is officially listed as being under investigation, however a Riverside County sheriff's deputy told The Californian early Tuesday morning that arson was suspected. Fire equipment lined Via Vaquero, just south of Via Santa Rosa, and was parked in the driveways of some homes on narrow roads to offer protection. Above, a CDF fire attack helicopter began making water drops on both locations of the fire
Patrick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:20 PM:I'm looking for info on local traffic conditions. I will be heading to Temecula from Riverside on the 215, wanting to get off at the 79S (Indion/Pechanga) exit to Redhawk. How far north is traffic backed up on the southbound 215? And generally how bad are the surface streets (e.g., if I want to get off at Murrieta Hot Springs and head east to connect to Margarita)? Just looking for a rough idea. ~ Thanks
To ChiefK wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:23 PM:Haven't heard or seen any news about fires in the Wine Country/Benton Rd. area.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:24 PM:We need the firefighters ahead of this clearing out brush not just on it. Is there a fire in Hemet too?
Carolyn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:26 PM:I'm hearing that parts of Redhawk are in danger--is this true?
Ynez in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:28 PM:Paul in Winchester: Don't know what you're talking about. I'm sitting in my office on Ynez facing Rancho California and the smoke back there in De Luz is at least 5 miles from the edge of the hill. There are no flames visible, so let's try and keep the fear factor down a notch, k? The wind would have to completely shift directions in order for that fire to blow DOWN the hill into Temecula. Also, Temecula people, there are no fires that are close enough yet to cause panic. The closest fire is most likely the Poomacha fire in Pala, and it's still several miles away. The wind would have to shift from direct easterly to directly from the south and stay from the south to drive the Poomacha fire over into Redhawk. This is highly unlikely, so take a breath and relax.
Michele wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:30 PM:Members of the Pala Band of Mission Indians evacuated north to Temecula, said councilmember Kilma Lattin. "We got the call early enough," he said. "We had our fire department going up and down the street telling peopel to evacuate." At mid-day, the tribe's fire department was making a stand to the east to prevent the Poomacha fire from damaging buildings or taking life, he said. The fire, which started on the La Jolla Indian reservation, burned through Rincon and was headed west along the Pauma Valley. Pala tribal members were gathering at Great Oak High School in Temecula, Lattin said. The tribe's casino is open, but its hotel is only open to firefighters, according to its general manager.
mj/diaz @ winchester wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:33 PM:I've heard reports of smoke & visible FLAMES up by La Cresta (off Clinton Keith in Murrieta). Any word from anyone on this new fire area??
Patty and Kaylee wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:34 PM:Kaylee just got back from top of Via Barranca and near Reneissance and looking towards Via Vaquero, Calle Pintoresca and Via Tornado, Via Santa Rosa looks like the fire is out in that area. However, we just got word from our niece that she was evacuated from the area between Rancho California and Old Town ridgeline area. She could see flames and smoke on that side of the ridge, but we cannot see them from the West side of the ridge. It sure would be nice if we had some news coverage on the TV that shows where the fire is actually burning.
off Ynez wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:35 PM: Poomacha fire on La Jolla, Rincon Indian Reservations near Palomar Mountain: More than 1,000 acres involved in area of Poomacha Road near state Route 76 and Pauma Valley; no containment At least one structure destroyed Eight firefighters injured 12:50 p.m.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:35 PM:the fire is on the outskirts of town south west and maybe south eastern. but with the winds who knows what is safe and what isn't and who wants topaossibly be caught in a mass traffic problems like what has been happening to the poor resident is san diego
Bill M wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:36 PM:David. Winds are from the east to southeast blowing toward the ocean for now.
Janice wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:41 PM:My viewpoint is from the knoll above TVHS looking south/southwest to Redhawk and 15S/79S. There are still heavy plumes of dark but mostly grey smoke. Do NOT see any visible fire coming north toward Temecula and the one gentleman is right that it sometimes looks closer or is actually from a different direction than it looks. It would help to know if people are asking questions or making statements by using punctuation, etc. The wind is still blowing from East to West in my area in Temecula center. Cannot see the west side of town but would like more info on the fires in De Luz and if they are heading inland.
Gail wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:44 PM:Thank you for this information i am in New Zealand and my daughter's father still lives off Winchester. There is scant new down here just the odd flyover newsreel (only malibu and Ramona) and i have been a bit worried. How is everything now in temecula.
jon wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:45 PM:someone needs to water that hill on TVHS property before it goes up in flames!
Veronica wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:48 PM:I live in a Murrieta Hot Springs/ Winchester Rd neighborhood but have been trapped in Carlsbad the past 2 days and wondered about the status of my home area. Any news would be appreciated. My understanding is that it'd be best for me to stay where I am give the 15 being blocked. Please advise? Thanks in advance.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:50 PM:are there any structures in danger or burning in the de luz area fires??
Gail wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:50 PM:Thank you for your updates on this site living in new zealand have very little news (only CNN). How it is now in Temecula please, my daughter's father is off Winchester Road (Knollridge Drive) can anyone tell me if things are ok there. Thanks
Patrick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:51 PM:I was on 15 heading north from 79 South to Rancho Calif about an hour ago, and traffic was light. Surface streets are normal traffic. Not sure if its back up on the 215, but I don't think so.
David wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:53 PM:I keep seeing information about the moutains or the LA area on most channels. Is there a local station we can tune into? I'm on the boarder of Murrieta and Temecula.
Suzanne wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:54 PM:I live in Redhawk and have views of hills in Old Town looks like it has calmed down quite a bit. Relative to 79 south by buttefield stage your family is ok no fires near there at this time. There is smoke to the south of us but appears to be from Rice fire. The TV Schools are open.
clash wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:57 PM:Just saw update on NCtimes Temecula Valley H.S shelter near capacity Red Cross looking to open third shelter
Danielle wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:57 PM:Where there's smoke there's fire. I have family in Rancho Bernardo who have lost their homes and they never knew what was coming because the thought it started so far away up by Julian. We always need to be prepared and I think people are just wanting information around here. I'm in Murrieta off Murrieta Hot Springs and am not panicking at all...I'm mainly frustrated that there is NO coverage on this fire. I have DirectTV and don't get that channel 27 everyone is talking about. The news I'm getting are focusing on the Orange County, San Diego and Running Springs blazes. It may seem like we're panicking, but really we just want a channel to go to. What happens in the middle of the night when nobody is covering the fire and we just get woken up unexpectedly? That's what everyone here is trying to avoid. Thank you to everyone who has posted on the boards, it is a help to all of us. My prayers go out to those families who have already lost their homes.
ES wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:57 PM:Does anyone know of the situation in the La Cresta Area? I can see smoke coming from the hills of that area. I am in Murrieta.
Mary in Winchester wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:00 PM:Has the fire actually go on Palomar Mt or just at the base?
KATE wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:00 PM:LETS ALL CALM DOWN! For thoese of you who are being Condisanding and rude trying to tell people that they are blowing this out of porportion... HOW DARE YOU... When not even 10 miles South of us people who most likely thought the way u did and told people to stop making a big deal out of nothing are in a horrible situatuion.... We have a very serious threat on our hands and I FOR ONE... would rather be OVER PROTECTIVE of myself and family, rather then Not at all... Just in case something Does happen... So please DO NOT POST unless u have info or are Inquiring info.... Go and have ur fun putting down people somewere else!
carlo wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:02 PM:I live in De Luz Ranchos area off of Rancho Cal and Calle Capistrano and just drove West on Calle Capistrano to get a better look and info from the fire department. I was able (from the highest peak possible) get a good look at the fallbrook fire. I noticed several helicopters assisting the fire and saw plumes of white smoke as well as plumes of dark ash filling the air. The good news is that the winds are definitely not as strong as yesterday's and blowing in the opposite direction from the area I live. The bad news is that anything can change with the randomness of the fires and wind currents. It looks as though the Santa Ana winds (blowing W and SW) have been stronger than the prevailing winds (normal winds blowing NE through the De Luz area). I was also able to see 2 of the 3 charred areas of the smaller De Luz fires that broke out last night...he fire crews that were there said these were 100% contained.
Shell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:02 PM:My husband is keeping tabs on the news and their only telling us what happens with RUNNING SPRINGS anything else we have to text message, Email, or look it up on like....I think thats a bunch of B.S. Come on they should be helping us all out.
La Cresta Guy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:04 PM:I live here in la cresta and was just advised to prepare for evac. We are getting our animals and family treasures and going down the hill.
Diamond Consulting wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:05 PM:We have a direct view from our balcony of both the Fallbrook fire and the fire west of temecula. At first glance, it looks bad because the smoke is stretching out about 20 miles across but the winds are defintely blowing westward and it's doubtful that the fire will come up over that hill at any time today. The fallbrook fire is the one that's a bit unnerving because it looks like it's getting incrementally bigger but it also take a full night to come down to the bottom. I've been watching the fires pretty closely and have seen a few news choppers but only 1 plane putting out flames.
AvocadoJoe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:05 PM:RE:To ChiefK wrote on Oct 23, 2007 2:23 PM: Am sitting here in the wine country and I can see Buck/Washington Road, Am looking out towards the Lake Skinner area. There is traces of smoke on the sky line far away. However, it is probably from the Lake Arrowhead / Running Spring area up north.
Dave wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:07 PM:Local Ch 27 is providing great coverage for us here in Murritea/Temecula.
Sue wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:10 PM:I am near La Cresta, close to the top of Clinton Keith; the smoke I see looks to be well beyond La Cresta, unless anyone has additional information.
On the Hill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:14 PM:I am up on the hill at the end of winchester (The edge building) and I can see that the fire at Palomar Mountain appears to have crested and is coming down the temecula side very slowly. The Helicopter that was flying over the building to the De Luz area is no longer flying over head....probably refueling. He has been going non-stop since this morning. Looking that the fire now it is a huge plume of whit/orange/and black smoke and from this vantage point is gaining intesity.....i see no air drop being made to the area.....more to come as I watch it creep down the hill.... PS..i am not trying to cause panic...just telling you what I see from here!!!!
La Cresta? wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:16 PM:To La Cresta guy Where did you get the info on preparing to evac? I'm in La Cresat too!
Business Worker wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:20 PM:Im Located on Business Park drive - We have not been evacuated nor can we see any flames from the ridge - I beleive the fire is 5 miles west of us. Although Rancho Calif is still blocked at Business park drive.
Shell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:20 PM:Can someone please help me out on this channel 27. I have time warner dont know if it makes a difference but channel 27 is the jewerl channel. When I turn 27 on they are saleing jewerly. Any other Temecula channels?????
Marie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:22 PM:"Any info re. a possible fire in La Cresta that mj/diaz mentioned? Is there new activity there?
Patrick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:23 PM:If there are any college students out there majoring in sociology, this blog would make a FASCINATING case study in human interaction during times of uncertainty & potential threat. And Kate's alarming shout "LETS ALL CALM DOWN!" is a riot. Finally: Frank, dude you've been up way too long. Go take a nap.
Paul wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:24 PM:The pastor at the Pala Mission on the Pala reservation and his family lost 4 of their homes. Everyone evacuated but they are still at the mission. Hope the flames stay away from the 190 year old mission. I don't think it's exactly built to withstand a fire.
toni wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:24 PM:I may be heading from temecula to hemet what are the traffic conditions and any fires going through that area?
Anja wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:32 PM:Local channel 27? on my cable (which is time warner) that is a qvc type jewelery show... anybody have any thoughts on which channel to look for? we are new here and not familiar with any of the news channels. thanks!
in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:32 PM:Channel 27 is great if you get it. I have Time Warner and they don't offer it. I think I'll be switchin to Verizon Fios.
Wife wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:34 PM:I just went to pick my kids up from school at Redhawk Elementary...the fire is burning over the mountain to the south of the school. Looks bad, but it is far enough away.
cali wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:35 PM:Full-screenPoomacha Fire The Witch fire and the Poomacha fires are converging. 10/23 12:47 p.m. Poomacha fire has established itself on Palomar Mountain. It is approximately 3,000 acres. 10/23 12:28 p.m. Poomacha Fire at the Rincon and La Jolla Indian Reservations. 10/23 11:58 a.m. The Poomacha Fire is now 23,000 acres and heading for Mt. Palomar so in 3hrs the fire has grown 20,000 acres, anybody that says some of us in temecula are over reacting, please look at the #'s and understand why were worried about our family
Lupe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:35 PM:No channel 27 for time warner or direct tv customers, please post what they are saying about temecula/murrieta, if/where evacuations are happening. Any info is very appreciated. Thanks to everyone posting and keeping us updated. Does channel 27 have a website?
NoEvacuations wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:39 PM:Calm down everyone. If there was a fire anywhere near town the City of Temecula would send out Reverse 911 messages and Police to assist with evacuations. Smoke can be deceiving. We are safe here.
Girl wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:42 PM:I live in La Cresta. Im at work right now in Murrieta, from where i am i dont see anything close to La cresta but im still scared! Any other la cresta people out there??
Jonathan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:43 PM:From City site: No evacuations have been planned for Temecula at this time. The City of Temecula has a Reverse-911 system and will notify citizens along with the Sheriffs Department if evacuations are necessary. Red Hawk evacuation is a false rumor.
Joe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:45 PM:Toni, I made the same drive 45 minutes ago. Toook the 215. No problems.
ES wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:46 PM:The fire out towards LaCresta looks like it is getting bigger. Anyone have any info?
Kim wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:47 PM:Veronica, so far things are ok here in the Murrieta Hot Springs/Winchester Rd. area. I can see lots smoke in the distance from two fires. On one of them I can see a bit of an orange glow. I think that may be the Palomar Mtn. fire.
Matt wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:48 PM:Lupe - There are no evacuations of any kind for Temecula or Murrieta. There was a false rumor of a Redhawk evacuation. The best way to stay informed is check the city website - http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Fire+Information.htm
seashell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:48 PM:Frank -- Keep up with the info. You make sense to me. I live in Wildomar, but work in LA -- should I start for home? I don't know what to do?
John wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:49 PM:For some of you, just look at a map of our area and you will see that before the fire can reach paseo del sol, harveston, the promenade communities it will first have to burn through the areas closest to it - redhawk, morgan hill, pechanga to the South and the business park in temecula to the west. Those of us living in the 'heart' of Temecula will receive plenty of obvious warnings. Good luck to all.
Mitch wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:51 PM:It looks like it's starting up near Jefferson and Murrieta Hot Springs now. A few fire trucks have moved in.
Sanam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:51 PM:I live off deer hollow in redhawk/pechanga neighborhood. the cloud of smoke is incredible. i can also feel the heat. we need to evacuate. I hope they dont wait until the last minute. this fire has grown 25,000 acres in 4 hours.
Betty wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:52 PM:I live outside Temecula in the wine country. I have a clear view of the ridgelines by the Poomacha fire. The Poomacha fire is putting up incredible smoke, all black. The base has widened a bit but not hugely. It is frightening to behold. From my viewpoint, it is burning Northwest, which would take it over the ridgelines sooner or later. I feel that it is burning toward the Rosa fire area. It has to cross at least 3 ridgelines, from what I can see. That puts it far away, but we all know what little that means. I see nothing East of me. The sky is clear and blue. I see nothing near Benton road. There is, however, a plume rising somewhat northeast of Temecula. The plume is small and white. The angle is not really clear to me. I heard on the news from San Diego that they are afraid that the Witch fire will merge with this Poomacha fire, around early PM, if at all. So, I am packing the car, and making my plans. That's all I can do. I don't blame anyone for fearing the worst. Chula Vista probably did not think they would be caught, either. The winds were horrible this AM, but have died down now. But it is at least 80 degrees here. I want to thank all the firefighters and news reporters who have helped keep us informed. Good luck, everyone.
Baber5 wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:54 PM:Does anyone have any info on the Deer Springs fire area? My brother lives off Gopher Canyon off the 15 freeway. He had to evacuate this morning and we are wondering about his house? Thanks!
La Cresta OK wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:55 PM:I just spoke with Riverside Fire. There are NO evacuation orders for La Cresta right now.
To Seashell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:55 PM:From John: I have read a few of 'Franks' comments. He has been rude and condescending. Do you know him? Would you really want advice from a guy like that? Frank - leave the blog, please, and let the rest of us share the information we have. Thanks
Carol wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:55 PM:Thompson Middle school in Murrieta had to send students home as the fire was getting closer.
Frank wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:56 PM:I am sitting at home in Redhawk next to the golf course and we are fine.I can see all from my uptairs,we are ok.
Amber wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:58 PM:I got the following information of the website www.cityoftemecula.org Hope this helps for anyone looking for information. There is no imminent threat to the City of Temecula, no evacuations have been planned for Temecula at this time. The City of Temecula has a Reverse-911 system and will notify citizens along with the Sheriffs Department if evacuations are necessary. Red Hawk evacuation is a false rumor. De Luz residents may go home with valid ID. (3:45pm)
David wrote on Oct 23, 2007 3:58 PM:Channel 27 or KZSW for local news. They just reported that there are NO evacuations in the Redhawk/Temecula area other than DeLuz. You should be able to find KZSW on the web or channel 27 (which is KZSW).
?John wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:01 PM:Has anyone come up with a channel on DirecTV yet for local coverage of these Temecula area fires? I feel for the folks in LA, etc...but would like to find out about the fires closest to home here in the Temecula Valley.
Lynne wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:01 PM:I can't find a website with relative up-to-date pictures or maps of where the fire is now.(The one coming up on Temecula.) We live in Menifee but have friends with a ranch and several animals on Las Alamos Rd. about 3 miles east of 215. Can anyone tell me where to look? Thanks.
Gisselle wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:01 PM:My daughter goes to Thompson and said nothing to me about it. I also have a son at Cole Canyon, went to pick him up after school. The fires are still plenty far away from either school.
Kelly wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:02 PM:Van Avery Prep in southern Temcula is being used as an evacuation center for animals in the area. Ask for Tina.
Rachael in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:04 PM:I just wanted to say something to those who think Temecula is not in danger. My uncle has property in Falbrook. He also thought the fires were too far away (several miles). The fire jumped the freeway and burned dozens of homes around him. The land around his whole property is burned and the fire came up to his garage. His home was spared because they clear brush on a regular basis. It is true that most of Temecula is likely safe. I would worry about the outskirts like Redhawk and Pechanga Parkway homes. Fires and wind is unpredictable. ANYTHING can happen... we can not jump to conclusions but it is natural to be scared and want to be safe. Not to mention there are sickos out there whom like to start fires.. as in the De Luz and Santiago case for fame and attention their actions brings. We can not underestimate people who want to do harm and start fires in highly populated areas. Not to mention idiots who throw their cigarettes out the window (I actually saw someone do that today)!!!
To Carol wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:05 PM:I am on the phone right now with my niece who goes to Thompson Middle School. You are very WRONG!! Do not give out incorrect information!!!!!!
Eric wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:05 PM:Ijust got back from Ontario and you can see the LARGE cloud of smoke from as far away as Lake Elsinore, but as you get closer the mountain gets bigger and the cloud smaller - that's because it's further away than you think, and the mountain it's behind are blocking much of the cloud. From a far away vantage point this becomes more and more obvious. Really, that cloud is absolutely HUGE if you are looking at it from Lake Elsinore. Sanam, the heat is everywhere... It's hot out today. I'm not saying it won't come down here, I can't predict nature, but for right now it's still pretty far away. FWIW, I'm in Temecula Creek looking at it out my window right now and from what I saw on the way down from Ontario compared to what I was looking at before I left the position and quantity of the smoke hasn't changed much.
Kaye wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:05 PM:Temecula classes for Mt. San Jacinto college will be cancelled tonight. Please check the MSJC website for further updates. Menifee classes will meet as scheduled.
steve wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:07 PM:a friend of mine got a news alert on his cell phone stating that there were people in pechanga reservation evacuating, but i cant find any information about it. does anyone know anything?
Mark S wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:08 PM:Carol- I can see Thompson from my balcony and there is no fire close to Thompson. According to the CDF spokesman on channel 27, other than the Rosa fire in De Luz, which is 50% contained, there are NO fires in SW Riverside County.
John wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:08 PM:Traffic not bad on Temecula or Murrieta surface streets. Probably all will be well unless evacuations are ordered. Then take your pick - go North or East. Keep in mind there is alot going on if you go North
Momma in Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:09 PM:Thompson Middle School DID NOT send students home early! My daughter got out at the normal time.
Kelly wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:14 PM:Van Avery Prep is offering animal shelter for people who have evacuated. Ask for Tina
Mary jane keating wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:14 PM:Pls let me know what is going on in temecula. How r the fires there. any new threat?
josh wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:16 PM:I live in copper canyon below la cresta - no signs of fire. just lots of smoke blowing down from the de luz fires. all good here . and that was a bogus claim about thompson middle school. no such thing happened. no fire or smoke even near thompson.
Cindy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:16 PM:From: the City of Temecula website http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Fire+Information.htm There is no imminent threat to the City of Temecula, no evacuations have been planned for Temecula at this time. The City of Temecula has a Reverse-911 system and will notify citizens along with the Sheriffs Department if evacuations are necessary. Red Hawk evacuation is a false rumor.
Aaron wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:17 PM:Carol, I live directly accross the street from Thompson (off Nighthawk in the Pulte home area) and my cousin attends there. They were not dismissed early and other than the smoke in the distance, there looks to be no fire anywhere near this area.
TMS Staff Member wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:17 PM: I work at Thompson and we DID NOT send any students home today due to fires
To Barber5 wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:20 PM:I know a lot of people that have evacuated and they are calling their houses to see if their answering machines come on. If the machine comes on, they assume their house is still standing.
To Rachel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:33 PM:I too have seen people careless and toss their cigarettes out their windows. There is a hotline you can call to report these as they happen. It's 1-800-no-smoking. They need to know date, time, and location of occurance. As well as, as much description of vehicle as possible especially license plate number.
Hello wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:33 PM:My boyfriend works in San Diego and is wondering if he should even come home to Temecula. Does anyone know the conditions on the 15 North...
Vanessa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:34 PM:Who knows a web site that I can look at to see what is closed between here and Valley Center? Thanks.
DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:34 PM:TEMECULA: My Sister and brother-in-law have spotted a fire in the far eastern area of Temecula in the Glen Oaks Hills area. they have tried to get crews to come out yet there has been noresponse. My brother-in-law is on the scene with his water truck trying to contain the fire yet with the winds it may be a lost cause. My sister is packing up along with her kids. PEOPLE PLEASE TAKE NOTICE AND KEEP EYES & EARS OPEN. Thanx!
Sad in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:36 PM:I love living in Temecula , but the lack of a real news source is stunning. KZSW has been playing the same news cast for the past 3-4 hours. NO new updates outside of some little scroll. The fact that the only place we can get local news is hearsay on a newspaper website is just sad.Come on Temecula Valley we need a real news station
Seashell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:37 PM:Hello John -- no, I do not know Frank, but I thought he might have info on Wildomar, as he seems to know what is going on. I have to drive to Wildomar from Century City in about an hour and I would like to know if anyone has information regarding Wildomar.
ryann wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:39 PM:why is everyone in murrieta freaking out? the fire would have to get through temecula first before it reaches murrieta. and why would thompson middle school evacuate?? from what i know there is no fire near murrieta.
Suz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:39 PM:Does anyone know if the fire is near Lake Skinner...We are suppose to camp there on Thursday? Sorry if this question has been answered, I am not familar with the area.
To Hello wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:44 PM:My step-son and other commuters are finding accomodations to stay in San Diego. The 15 Freeway is unreliable due to the fires - closures and re-openings, etc...
Temecula Crk Condos (79S between Pechanga and Redhawk) wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:44 PM:From my patio, I can see that portion of the 15 that is just south of 79S/Temecula Parkway exit. Currently, there is both Northbound and Southbound traffic on the 15.
To ryann wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:48 PM:Right on. Just look at a map, people. Wildomar, lake elsinore - no worries for now. South Temecula and Western Temecula and Murrieta will be the first areas to be in danger. If you are commuting from the North, just come on home. San Diego commuters should probably not chance the drive back to Temecula.
Suzanne wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:49 PM:Is the fire near Lake Skinner? My family is suppose to camp there on Thursday..we are not familar with the area.
Vanessa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:50 PM:Ok, you fortunate people with the local news station (27?)...what's the general consensus with the fires around/near Temecula? This is really the only place with updates for some of us. Thanks for all the input today, I'm not familiar with fire situations.
cali wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:50 PM:kfmb 760am you can here update live dj answering all questions! you can google it and get the web address, this site wont allow me to leave it.
Jayla wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:51 PM:To Ryann: Everyone is freaking out because new fires are starting and of course the unknown. Everyone please trust in God and Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Everything will work out.
Ellie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:52 PM:am 600 & am 640 are very good sources of information. They are very up to date.
To Gina wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:53 PM:La Cresta is an equestrian community with 5+ acre homesites. It is located due North of De Luz. Another way to describe it: A couple of miles West of Murrieta on the extreme North side off Clinton Keith Road
Matt wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:54 PM:I was just at the highest point in West Temecula (near Edge Development on Industria). I could see the entire valley, there is no smoke anywhere near Temecula or Murrieta. There is a lot of smoke coming from the Mount Palomar fire, but I couldn't see any flames from my vantage point. Given the current wind direction, I don't think there's much chance it will even get close. Suz - there are no fires to the east of Temecula , Lake Skinner is fine.
Ellie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:55 PM:Seashell - I live in Wildomar as far as I can see as of right now Wildomar looks fine. I can see the smoke up behind the mountains from the south-west but again as of right now Wildomar looks fine
To Seashell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:57 PM:From John: The fires currently are not near Wildomar. Coming from LA you should be just fine. The closest fire to Wildomar would have to travel through La Cresta/Murrieta to get to Wildomar. Wildomar is safer and further from the fires than either Temecula or Murrieta. If you were a member of my family I would say 'come on home'. Hope this helps.
scared mom in temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:58 PM:I have been watching this all day--but did not join in---Just wanted to say thanx to everyone for taking time to inform everyone--The tv news is terrible--nothing about Temecula=-(
Suz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:59 PM:My brother inlaw is a Police Officer in Murrieta and he says NO fire in Murrieta as of 4:58.
lnz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 4:59 PM:Ive been trying to leave a link to live news, doesnt seem to be working. There is a link on nbcsandiego .com to view their live broadcast
Joey wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:00 PM:i go to vmhs but it says its an evac location, does that mean school is cancelled or what?
Diamond Consulting wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:03 PM:From my office balcony off of ynez and rancho california i see no further smoke coming from the fire west of temecula, over the de luz hill. From here, it looks completely contained. The fallbrook fire still looks pretty bad from where i am. The wind today is significantly weaker than yesterday but it's still blowing pretty good. i think it's safe to say that anything east of fallbrook, including temecula, murrieta, french valley and elsinore are safe for now.
to scared mom wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:08 PM:I have been thinking the same thing. Here we have to communicate with each other on a newspaper blog sight to get information. NO NEWS at all about there even being fires around Temecula. My Directv only gets LA channels, so i know all about Ventura county at least ha,ha
Brian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:09 PM:If anyone can confirm that its just smoky in south temecula by redhawk and crowne hill i would appreciate it. my wife and dogs are at home, i am in irvine for work. there are mixed reports and just want someone to confirm the wind is going towards san diego and no fire is headed to temecula. thanks...BRIAN
Ellie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:09 PM:Someone earlier mentioned the CDF website. I checked the website out and it is a very good source of information. It has the fires listed, the latest info, evacuation areas, evacuation centers - it also has a link to google map - all very helpful - thank you for mentioning it. http://www.fire.ca.gov/
JT wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:09 PM:I just drove over to the North Side of Palomar mountain. It appears that the wind is now blowing west (away from Temecula). It doesn't appear to be dangering Redhawk or any of those areas at this time.
To Brian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:13 PM:I am in Redhawk....your wife should be fine. The smoke looks close...but it isn't.
TO BRIAN wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:15 PM:Your wife and dogs should be fine. I live nearby, and I am still at home...not being evacuated.
to Brian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:15 PM:It is my understanding that pala has evacuated, but the fire has not crested the hills South of Redhawk and Crowne Hill. Winds appear to be blowing West to Northwest - away from your home. Hope this helps.
Grace wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:17 PM:Anyone else notice a fire in GLEN OAK HILLS? My parents live up there and they said they haven't seen anything.
lnz wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:19 PM:channel 7 news (nbc) has a livestream of their broadcast that has good info on the north county fires
Ryan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:21 PM:The City is monitoring the fire activity in the region. There are NO Mandatory Evacuations for the City of Temecula. There is no current threat.The ‘Deluz Fire’ also known as the ‘Rosa Fire’ has burned 411 acres w/ 50 percent containment. ^ This is from the offical city of temeculas site
To Brian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:22 PM:I just watched channel 27 and they said it is the Rainbow fire and Temecula/Redhawk ARE NOT in any danger at this time nor do they anticipate a problem. If you have verizon fios turn to channel 27.
Eric wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:23 PM:To Brian: Yes, it is just smokey right now. The fire is still pretty far away - at least 10 miles, and the direction of the smoke trail is taking it more toward Fallbrook than it is Temecula.
Reggie Temecula Parkway wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:24 PM:Brian, just smoke everywhere, no fire just yet. Let's hope it stays that way.
sarbear wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:24 PM:There is only smoke over the top of the ridge twards Fallbrook. Clear air here. No fire threat at this time in South Temecula.
Shawna wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:25 PM:I would love to hear just a little news regarding the Temecula area near RedHawk. Any suggestions of where to go to see or hear what's happening south of the 79?
Shawna wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:25 PM:I would love to hear just a little news regarding the Temecula area near RedHawk. Any suggestions of where to go to see or hear what's happening south of the 79?
Jason wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:27 PM:Brian: I'm in Vail Creek/Redhawk and there's nothing but a large visible tower of smoke over Pala and from reports somewhat on Palomar Mt. Its still a long way from Temecula. And the wind is still blowing it West not North toward us. Another good sign or at least encouraging is that there have been 6-8 fire fighting planes flying over Temecula and circling over the Pala fire and then returning. So this fire is definately high priority.
Karen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:28 PM:From the site I just listed: There are NO Mandatory Evacuations for the City of Temecula. The City of Temecula has a Reverse-911 system and will notify citizens along with the Sheriffs Department if evacuations are necessary. Red Hawk evacuation is a false rumor. De Luz residents may go home with valid ID. (3:45pm) The ‘Deluz Fire’ also known as the ‘Rosa Fire’ has burned 411 acres w/ 50 percent containment. It is expected to have full containment by 6PM tomorrow. No structures were lost and 230 fire personnel were assigned to the incident. Currently emergency personnel are allowing residents back into the Deluz area that have ID. The City in conjunction with the American Red Cross has opened additional shelters at Chaparral High School located at 27215 Nicolas Road in Temecula, Vista Murrieta High School located at 28251 Clinton Keith Road in Murrieta, The Temecula Valley High School is also hosting an Evacuation Center, the address there is 31555 Rancho Vista Road in Temecula and the Temecula Community Recreation Center at 30875 Rancho Vista Road . The American Red Cross is accepting bottled waters, bottled Gatorade and canned drinks. For more information regarding the Riverside fires, please call 951 940-6985 or for the San Diego fires please call, 619 590-3160. Citizens may also dial 211 from any landline to obtain local information.
Rick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:29 PM:I have already evacuated. Does any one have any information on the fire that may threaten the area near De Luz road and Harris Trail?
Michele wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:32 PM:Just came from the far end of Redhawk...alot of scary smoke but no flames. According to the elusive channel 27 it's the Rice fire in Rainbow but blowing west. CHS is setting up a center, that's true.
Vanessa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:34 PM:Brian, we see black and grey smoke behind the hills that border Redhawk. It is blowing away from us to the west now that the wind has picked up again. It appears we are not in harms way at this time.
TO BRIAN wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:34 PM:Yes there is alot of smoke--but I cannot confirm what is going on. Nothing is on the news but my backyard is the Sports Park and people have been coming to the evacuation center there one after the other.
Trina wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:36 PM:I hope I can help answer some questions. I live in the temecula area and had stayed hom from work today so I have been tracking this fire as close as possible. There is a good tv station for the temecula and san diego ara but my dad isnt home to tell me which one it is. I have evacuated my home in de luz. My boyfriend is still there refusing to leave til the flames come above the ridge before him. I am not sure how acurate the information I have recieved is. I know that some people in redhawk in temecula(off the 79) have been evacuated. I know that some homes in de luz have been evacuated. I live very near the cross creek golf corse(google the buisness and you will see a map)and I have been watching the Rosa fire. My boyfrind and I went to look at the burnt area from afar and it looks to be pretty under control (but I'm not a firefighter) I have not seen any flames from my location. I was not mandatory evacuated but woudl rather be safe than sorry. I hope I answered some questions for you all. This is really the best form of comunication we all have on this fire besides that tv station my dad knows of. When he gets home I will let you all know. Good luck to you all and I am praying for all of us.
scared mom in temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:37 PM:Yes--I am an expert on every other city but my own. My sisters live in N.J. & Texas-my mom in SC know more than we do=-(
nils wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:37 PM:is temecula in a "standby" evacuation situation? or is that just a rumor? please someone reply. thank you!
OWest wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:37 PM:i heard on the radio that the fire is on base of palomar mtn. the other side, away from temecula. the fire is burning SW. one other thing, theyre hoping it will not connect to the witch fire they are both 7 miles apart. but they mentioned temecula is safe.
d wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:38 PM:Brian - I am by redhawk now and although the smoke is growing, I think Temecula is safe. And yes the wind is blowing in wetwardly direction.
Angel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:38 PM:Residents are being allowed back into the DeLuz area. Fire is well contained. The smoke you see is the Rainbow Fire well South of us. No evacuations have been called for Temecula according to Temecula City Hall. The only two fires that have erupted in Riverside County are the Aguanga which is 100% contained and the DeLuz which is also contained. I hope this helps
beachpig wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:49 PM:Brian....the only smoke is coming from the Pauma fire which appears to be about 3 ridges (several miles) from Redhawk/Pechangas southern division. No flames visible...just a plume of smoke that has been primarily going west, however it appears the fire is moving east. Nothing appears to be threatened at all in this area at this time.
Ok in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:53 PM:The wind has died down in Temecula and the smoke is not blowing in this direction. So Brian I am sure your wife is fine.
Julie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:55 PM:I just spoke to the emergency command center for the City of Temecula and am working at one of the 4 evacuation centers in Temecula. The Palomar Mountain fire is 20 miles away from Temecula at this point. I live in Redhaw and have been watching very closely. The wind seems to be blowing Northwest.
DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 5:56 PM:Fire update: Sister is reporting that the fire being seen from the Glen Oaks Hills are (fron atop ridges) is the fire and/or smoke from the Palomar Mountain area (Poomancha Fire) Please keep alert in this area. there is nothing but brush between this fire and the Aguanga/Glen Oaks Hills area.
in temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:00 PM:i live at butterfield stage rd and nighthawk. all i see over the ridge from my house is still smoke. it does look far away at this moment. "the ridge" is the hill behind pechanga casino.
Junius wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:04 PM:I'm on my office balcony (rancho california and ynez) looking due west and there no smoke coming up on that hill behind de luz anymore. the fallbrook fire is still going but hasn't come over the hill. the wind is carrying that fire west towards the 15 by the checkpoint. based on what i see, there's no iminent threat to temecula whatsoever.
Seashell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:05 PM:Hello John -- no, I do not know Frank, but I thought he might have info on Wildomar, as he seems to know what is going on. I have to drive to Wildomar from Century City in about an hour and I would like to know if anyone has information regarding Wildomar.
Rainbow Resident wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:11 PM:De Luz is evacuated but is not burning but for the Santa Margarita border with Fallbrook, and there is a smaller fire on the West side of the 15 in De Luz Canyon, not near Redhawk, but that appears to be mostly controlled. De luz residents were evacuated mainly to ensure all got out while there is still guaranteed access in and out. Keep yourselves safe, and don't ignore evac orders even if you feel you are not in danger. Take care.
Redhawk wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:14 PM:Just smoke over the hills blowing to the west. Redhawk and Pechanga area is ok now.
Hanna wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:15 PM:i live in temecula and have kept finding information on teh staus of the fires, so far all i hear is that temecula is on fire back tward pachanga the far far side. is temecula in danger? most schools in tmecula have closed due to use as evacuation centers. apprx 250 structures have been burned in fallbrook as of 6 pm tonight. hope this helps somewhat
to dirtycowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:15 PM:Is there really a fire in Glenoak hills. I live there and I am in pasadena. PLEASE let me know now.
ocano wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:17 PM:fire is at base of palomar mtn. on the other side of temecula. temecula is safe. winds are blowing away from temecula.
Sarah wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:20 PM:Just spoke with my daughteer at home in Glen Oak Hills. Winds are calm and there is no sign of smoke up there.
DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:24 PM:They thought there was a fire and my brother-in-law went in search. What they are seeing is the fire and smoke of the Poomancha Fire. I am trying to keep updated on this fire. My sister and her husband live on Green Oaks. No danger yet but possible if fire moves North-Nortwest
tem teacher wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:26 PM:per the district website all schools will be open in Temecula on Wednesday unless conditions change. All schools were open yesterday and today as well.
DeMaris wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:28 PM:Thank you all for this information. I am in Tillsonburg Ontario, Canada and have friends in Temecula.
Rob and Kate wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:29 PM:Temecula reverse 911 for Cell Phones... Anybody know how to register a cell phone number to a potential evacuation in Temecula?
DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:31 PM:Sorry about confusion from earlier. I am in Henderson, NV and due to lack of information via newscast in CA I am the point of contact for my family in Temecula. I will post any new information I receive. Since my sister has no home phone and uses only cell they do not have reverse 911 capability so I will keep a very close eye on any developments that I find.
Redhawk/Vail Ranch wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:32 PM:Flames are now visible atop the ridge. They are very hard to see, but they are there. Be careful! I live in Vail Ranch/Redhawk area and was able to see the flames from my balcony.
Near Pechanga Casino wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:35 PM:First of all, Frank, quit posting...this is not a forum for for you to argue with people. If people want to make a post, we don't need you to rebut them. Enough said on that. Hopefully, Frank will not post anything other than specific news which is what we are all here looking for. I drove down near Pechanga Casino past Great Oak High School about 30 minutes ago. There is white smoke coming through the canyon heading towards Great Oak High School at this time. My daughter goes to school there but we are being told by the school that they are keeping students indoors except for when they need to pass from class to class.
Redhawk wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:36 PM:Temecula, redhawk, pechanga are NOT on Fire! There is NO Fire in this area!!!
HIGHSCHOOLS? wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:37 PM:are highschools gonna be open , are they just gonna have school with people living in the gymnasiums cause i know tvhs chap and vista are evac centers? so whats UP??
west wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:39 PM:i cann see flames coming up from palomar mtn. i live next to pechanga.
ajm4peace wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:42 PM:Please provide some feedback. Can family drive up the 15 from san diego to temecula or is the freeway 15 closed? Thank you
an wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:43 PM:there is hope for all of you .But there is a fire .Just watch the news.be safe!
west wrote on Oct 23, 2007 6:55 PM:just start packin cause planes are not available at night. palomar mtn fire is visible from pechanga
FairwayJim wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:06 PM:I live in Redhawk-I can see the glow-not the flames-of the fire. It is still miles away and barring any dramatic wind change, I do not think Redhawk has anything to worry about
To Seashell wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:07 PM:No fire in Wildomar (I live on the very south end). Amazing though, I can see flames from my upstairs window west of me (maybe DeLuz or Fallbrook?) Far away though.
Temecula mom wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:08 PM:Just recd a call from the school district that all schools in TVUSD will be open 10/24 as of right now
In Wildomar wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:10 PM:I am off of Clinton Keith by hospital and can see fire on the ridge top to the south east from my upstairs window. Probably the same thing you are seeing J. I have been all over every website I can find but this seems to have the best info from the locals.
Diane and Kjeld wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:17 PM:JUST LOOKING WEST TOWARDS AND NOTICED A FIRE TOWARDS RANCHO CA. IS THIS A NEW FIRE AND WHICH WAY IS IT GOING?
west wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:22 PM:for those who dont know. more info http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Fire+Information.htm
Near Old Town wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:50 PM:Regarding Fire In Temecula *** There is no fire in Temecula *** go to Temecula's News Station at: http://www.kzswtv.com/
mahree wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:53 PM:www.fire.ca.gov has info (updated whenever possible) on all the fires including: location, evacuations, areas currently and possibly threatened, containment (if any) and fire information phone #s all referenced under the fire 'nicknames' such as 'Poomacha fire' 'Ammo Fire' etc.
west wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:59 PM:The Poomacha Fire is 20,000 acres and 0% contained, there has been 10 injuries to firefighers, 218 firefighters are assigned to this incident. 50 homes have been destroyed. Fire increased in size substantially due to extreme fire behavior, lack of resources and high winds. Some resources are beginning to arrive at the incident, but no significant perimeter control has been initiated due to structure protection priorities.
Murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 7:59 PM:First, thanks so much to The California and to all here who have posted such helpful, current info about these fires and good luck to all. Sorry to ask a relatively unimportant question but does anyone have updates about the current freeway/highway conditions? Such info would be appreciated (e,g, is the Rancho California offramp still closed, is the traffic South bound on the i-15 stopped, is the Oretega/74 still the only nearby e-bound highway open?) Thanks much!
Irma wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:02 PM:Does anyone know if d\the area of DeLuz Los Gatos and Carancho are ok? I have family there, thanks
DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:04 PM:Temecula: My brother-in-law just called to let me know that the smell of smoke in the Aguanga area from the Poomancha Fire is strong where as around noon today only smoke seen, no smell. He is keeping watch in the Glan Oaks Hills area atop one of the ridges there. More information to be posted as it comes
Christine in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:09 PM:Diane..you said you noticed a fire towards rancho california? Any update on that?
Nicole in Temecula (Pachenga) wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:10 PM:I'm really confused, I see flames and I'm trying to read all this but I'm unsure which fire it is I see, it's just behind the hills near Pachenga... can anyone shed some light, anyone know of evacuation plans blah blah blah?????
Nathan the architect wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:12 PM:okay, i received reports that over 400 acres have burned and that the fire has the potential to burn 2 to 3000 acres within the next few days. Out of my second story window near great oak. i can see the tips of the flames on the fires heading out of fallbrook. the view is like staring at an erupting volcano. i don't believe that the school will be evacuated though. The large clouds heading over the mountains may be above us by morning. so everybody with breathing problems should be wary of this.
AvocadoJoe wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:13 PM:Went up to De Luz at 4:00pm, and we were able to get to our property through Via Santa Rosa. We saw the burnt areas on the hills, and saw that from what we could see they were dorment. However, we did not go to Via Vasquaro and Via Barranca. The fire from Fallbrook looked pretty scary then; it was over the hills above Santa Margarita Ecological Preserve and the River. No structural damage so far. Several Avocado groves were left with the burn scare. I'll post some pics at my site later on.
mahree wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:20 PM:The County of Riverside Transportation and Land Management Agency Trasportation department has a listing of road closures and the reasons for the closures as of 2001 hrs 23 Oct 07. They also list two numbers you can call, one for business hours and for after hours for more info. At the agency's home page click on 'transportation'. The road closure link should be on the right side of the next page.
Temecula Crk Condo wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:25 PM:From my porch, I can see I-15, the portion that's just south of 79S/Temecula Pkwy exit. Traffic flowing in both directions.
Jamr wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:30 PM:Julian just received a mandatory evacuation because of the potential of the Witch Fire to change direction due to expected wind changes.
deluzguy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:42 PM:hey i was evaced last night, any info on the fire near palomar? looks threatening to the entire area, we are undermanned and all air crews are grounded until tomorrow. thanks
avogal wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:46 PM:jman! What in the world are you smoking? No way is Pechanga on fire. Why are you trying to scare the people of Temecula with such stupid informatin?
Bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 8:53 PM:I just printed out these comments, It took 63 pages. Anyway I have been watching the smoke from the fire somewhere on the south side of Palomar Mountain through binoculars as it rises above the crest of the Mountain. Both before and after it got dark. I am in Murrieta at a higher level than much of the city so I have a good view. It is sixteen miles direct. I can usually see the observatory and could see it today easily without a binocular. could not tell whether I could see any flames, so I think I was imagining some faintly. After it got dark the smoke is lighted pink from the flames. I can tell from here there is no fire coming down on the Temecular side of the mountain toward Redhawk. I can not tell whether the fire itself is on the other side of the mountain closest ridge, or further back behind another ridge or so. I do not know whether firefighters have a fire line on the ridge. The wind has died down now, so I would doubt a fire could come down the mountain very fast during th enight and would show up from all over. Several years ago there was a wild fire along the base of the mountain near Redhawk, and the firefighters took care of it OK.
redhawk near pechanga wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:00 PM:i was just at stater brothers off 79 and there were a bunch of fire fighters and marines from camp penelton and they said the city of temecula will be fine. even thought the fire is 5 miles away from the casino the winds are carrying it south back towards sd. he said we live in a green belt and the city is in no danger, they have it under control enough to detect the direction. and at this point thats what we can relie on. its all so scary still.
DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:04 PM:The link www.fire.ca.gov has a google map, updated regularly of evacuations and perimeters, shelters, road closure that seem to be decent and helpful. I hope this will help ease or inform people. I hear Temecula is highly uninformed and ignored from media. I wish the best for everyone in CA.
nick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:06 PM:it seems that our lovely television shows are more important than the well being of sourthern california seeing as the big channels (2,4,7,11) are not covering the firestorm. i dont want to know about whether chandler slept with monica! i want to know the where abouts of this firestorm!
john wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:09 PM:come on guys! where are the updates!? why is nobody posting any more information? this site was my best chance for some actual local news. keep on posting! please!
PROUD RESIDENT OF TEMECULA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:13 PM:NC TIMES ROCKS----THIS BLOG IS AWESOME --THANX TO LAURI LOCKWOOD FOR STARTING THIS AND ALLOWING US FELLOW TEMECULA'NS TO KEEP EACHOTHER POSTED.I FEEL MORE AT PEACE. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE OUT THERE. GOD BLESS
To Cindy and Andy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:21 PM:Hey, mates - Mary here, in AZ - sending prayers to all of you. Any news on Sandia Creek Dr? People, please be nice to each other....be safe....so sorry for these fires....Everyone is worried...hoping no news is good news still. Funny blogs about drinking a beer, Andy! Hope the home is ok.....
Christie in Temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:23 PM:I was just up by the library in Temecula and you can see flames cresting the right hand side of the mountain, but it looks like it's AT LEAST 15 miles away and would have to travel quite a while in heavy winds to even get close to town. The DeLuz fire although glowing is also quite a ways away. Since the winds have died down it seems that the worst might be over.
Wildomar Resident wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:30 PM:Does anyone have a website to find out whether I-15 is open from Temecula to Gofer Canyon? I need to be able to find out if I can get to work tomorrow morning. I will be traveling from Wildomar area.
student wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:30 PM:so far i havent seen nor heard of any fires in murrieta[at least none near the schools MVHS, thompson, or cole canyon] and no evacuation in la cresta.
SCARED MOM IN TEMECULA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:32 PM:MY BACKYARD FACES THE EVACUATION CENTER AT THE RONALD REGEAN SPORTS PARK. I CAN SEE THE RED CROSS SET UP AND ALSO I CAN SEE THE FIRE DEPT. I HAVE A CLEAR VIEW OF THE GLOW FROM THE MOUNTAIN. LOOKS TO BE THE SAME AS HOURS BEFORE IF NOTHING ELSE LESS VISIBLE. DOESNT LOOK LIKE FIRE HAS TRAVELED MUCH. SEEMS CALM BUT ALOT OF CARS ARE ON THE ROAD STILL. WILL CHECK BACK BEFORE I GO TAKE A NAP. KEEP THE FAITH TEMECULA.
DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:33 PM:Mike: Keep it to yourself. I'm a CA native and I now live in NV but my heart will always be in CA. My sister and her family are up in Temecula, and though my heartfelt sypathies go out to everyone who is threatened and/or has loss from this disaster, I will do whatever possible from my end out here to help the communities concerned.
butterfield/nighthawk wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:33 PM:all i see behind pechanga now is a faint whitish/light orangish glow. as long as it does not get more orange, i think its good.
temecula wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:34 PM:Hey there Mike!!!! You don't need to leave us STUPID comments. This is our house and our family!! Thanks to everyone else for the info.
HEY MIKE wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:37 PM:FOR THOSE OF US THAT DO CARE--PLEASE DO NOT WRITE THREATENING COMMENTS.THIS BLOG IS THE ONLY MEANS OF COMMUNICATIONS THROUGHOUT THIS VALLEY PLEASE DONT RUIN IT ON US.
Mary off Pechanga Parkway wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:37 PM:We are just east of Temecula Creek Golf Course, the glow over the mountain accross the 15 seems to be getting redder... Any word on this?
Laura wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:41 PM:I just came through the police stop on Rancho Cal up to DeLuz. The deputy stated that the Fallbrook fire has not entered Riverside Co. and that fire trucks are stationed off Santa Rosa just in case. The wind is still blowing southwesterly. Avocado gal, there is no smoke or fire near Los Gatos/Carancho. DeLuz near the plateau is fine.
Murrieta Resident wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:41 PM:A useful link regarding fires in Riverside County. http://appsweb.co.riverside.ca.us/firepio/process?action=viewIncidents
Red Hawk Resident in NYC wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:41 PM:Thanks to all for posting on this site. I talk to my wife and she knows less than what I know from 3000 miles away. I was around in early 2000 when the last fire hit Palomar. It was expertly controlled by CDF.
Cant see a thing.. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:42 PM:I am in Temecula, butsince i am geographically challenged,i cant figure out which fire is which. i know there is one in deluz - one in palomar - one in fall brook - and one north of beaumont (running springs?). im pretty sure those are the ones i can see the smoke from. here's what i cant figure out... my mom was driving south on the 215 between newport and clinton kieth. she said she could see the smoke and glow of a fire along a ridge to the south east. so what fire is that? also an update for temecula. i work on rancho calif rd, west of the 15 freeway, close to the base of the hill. the air is clear down there, little wind, traffic is light. rancho calif rd was opened westbound for local traffic. i am at home now on margarita and rancho calif. the air looks and smells pretty clear around here. i can see some smoke to the south (rice or deluz?) but i cant really smell it. ok.. so there is my input... anyone know about the fire SE of the 215?
student wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:43 PM:I believe, though, that i did hear from a caller on 94.1 that they are closing the back gate of camp Pendleton? or something along those lines, seeing as i am only a student i would check the 94.1 website and news channels to clarify this or i heard this in the morning. bless you all during this time and keep posted!
SCM wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:44 PM:Just got back to Murrieta after going down the 15 to the 76, which means 79 ramps were obviously open. As I was heading south there was a decent-sized flare-up just west of the 15 just past the Mission Exit. Didn't see any fire trucks at that point (around 9:15??), but there seemed to be some sort of police/CHP car standing guard. And sadly there were lookie-loos pulling off the side of the 15 going South. Come on folks, do NOT cause more problems by practically causing accidents just so you can see a fire! :( Heading south on the 15 from Murrieta you could see what I believe is the Poomacha fire, but as you got closer to the checkpoint you couldn't see it at all. Also, on the way back north on the 15 you could see a big red glow over Fallbrook area. Good news was that I couldn't see any fire/smoke in what I think was the De Luz/Rosa fire southwest of the Santa Rosa plateau. Thanks to the North County Times/Californian for continuing to allow comments on this story since it was pretty much the ONLY info we could get in the area. Even sent you guys kudos in my blog. ;)
M&M wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:44 PM:I live in la Cresta and from my front yard I can see flames that seem to grow and subside South of the Santa Rosa Platueau. My concern is the closure of Clinton Keith Road which is the only road to get down from L Cresta any news on this?
Dave wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:44 PM:Is Sandia Creek Road open? Need to get to Via Del Gavalin...Please advise..Thanks
Michele wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:47 PM:Members of the Pala Band of Mission Indians evacuated north to Temecula, said councilmember Kilma Lattin. "We got the call early enough," he said. "We had our fire department going up and down the street telling peopel to evacuate." At mid-day, the tribe's fire department was making a stand to the east to prevent the Poomacha fire from damaging buildings or taking life, he said. The fire, which started on the La Jolla Indian reservation, burned through Rincon and was headed west along the Pauma Valley. Pala tribal members were gathering at Great Oak High School in Temecula, Lattin said. The tribe's casino is open, but its hotel is only open to firefighters, according to its general manager.
in murrieta wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:54 PM:does the planes work at night because where i live i can see the flames trying to get over the mountain
gerise wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:54 PM:I suggest google CALTRANS for road closures it was helpful for us yesterday
Cathy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:00 PM:I live in Menifee and am watching flames from my window....looks like Sun City Hills...anyone know for sure?
D wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:00 PM:I cannot make heads or tails of the caltrans/sigalert sites. If I need to get to Temecula from the San Diego airport, can I do it? Which route? Please help :-)
DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:13 PM:General info: If you are on the 215 and in the Sun City, Menifee, Murrieta areas looking South or Southeast and see glow or fire, you are likely seeing the Poomancha fire on Mt Palomar. This is many Miles away but can be seen from many areas. I have been checking the Forestry, CHP, and Riverside County Fire Department sites regularly and no report of a fire has come in for those aforementioned cities.
mahree wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:17 PM:My husband just came up the 15 You can try taking the 805 and cutting across the 52E and getting on the 15
In Wildomar wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:19 PM:I was down in Redhawk area about 1 hr ago. Fire to south east has not gone over ridge and might even be further back that it appears. Unless there is a drastic wind change it appears there is no danger to Temecula. I stopped by Red Cross shelter set up at Vista Murrieta High off Clinton Keith/215 to see of they needed any donations. They are just getting the first evacuees so are good with food/water/beds so far. All hotels in area are full and other shelters filling so if someone needs a place to go there is lots of room there at the moment. I got a recorded call from the school saying that they were having classes tomorrow which seems crazy. I am keeping my kids home out of consideration for the peace of those poor people. The police onsite agreed. Not to mention the fact that acess will be difficult at best.Anyone wishing to help tomorrow should check with the Red Cross then when they have a better idea of what is needed there. Red Cross personnel and exacuees had not arrived en masse yet. God Bless!
Z wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:22 PM:Why are the schools in Temecula still open tommorrow? Many are evac sites and while Temecula is still relatively safe, all around us is chaos. Roads are closed, colleges are closed, sports are cancelled... This seems like a bad decision- based on what?
IN AGUANGA wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:22 PM:as far as I can see it D (www.chp.ca.gov) the 15 freeway is all clear and looks like your route to Temecula
Todd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:26 PM:attention parents: i understand that so far there saying that the high schools are going to remain open. but those poor evacuees are going to be there as well? i just dont understand. my children goes to chaparral and is it that there going to have 3000 kids on campus plus these poor evacuees? it just doesnt seem right. not to mention where are the kids who drive going to park? these people are loosing there homes and the least thing they want are kids running aronud. i think i may keep my kids home.
DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:27 PM:In Aguanga: How does the Poomancha (Mt Palomar Fire) look from your end. I have family in the far eastern region of Temecula (Top of Glen oaks Hills where development completely stops) and Im their only way to get info to them. Any info is greatly appreciated.
just so you know wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:28 PM:the flames you may be seeing that r even close to our towns could just be the firefighters lighting up back fires. they set fires so taht it will burn everything before the big fire gets here, they do this in a very controlled manner. so dont think just cause u seem flames we are in danger.
Cathy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:31 PM:Im actually looking North from my house in Menifee where I see fire.
A wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:37 PM:I understand that the fire isn't a direct threat to the schools in Temecula, but isn't the air quality a danger? Why was the decision made to keep schools open tomorrow?
TVUSD MOM OF 3 wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:39 PM:I AGREE WITH THE TEMECULA SCHOOLS TO BE CLOSED. I HAVE CHILDREN IN DIFFERENT SCHOOLS DUE TO AGE DIFFERENCE.IF EVERY PARENT HAD TO RUSH OUT TO GET THERE CHILDREN;MORE IMPORTANTLY IF THE REDHAWK AREA GETS ANY WORSE THE COMMUNITY WOULD HAVE MORE PROBLEMS TRYING TO EVACUATE THE KIDS. MY SON HAS ASTHMA AND CHANGES ALL HIS CLASSES OUTSIDE. HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO TVHS--KIDS CLASSES ARE NOT CLOSE TOGETHER.
Angela wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:41 PM:Why is the Temecula School District holding school on Wednesday? Teachers are stresses about the situation and their loved ones around the area, students are scared and no work gets done. Students should be safe and with their families at this time. Not in school so the distict gets their money.
west wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:46 PM:thi is the caltrans number for road conditions - 1800-427-road(7623) as far as the palomar fire. i live next to pechanga and i cannot see the fire over the ridge. just orange glow. the fire seems to be a little farther too.
west wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:14 PM:i am next to pechanga and i only see orange glow over the palomar mtn. looks like the fire is a little farther than it seems. news mentioned the fire is 50 miles long. weather is cooperating at the moment. will keep u posted.
Betty wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:55 PM:Outside Temecula in wine country: I have been watching the ridges off and on tonight. Earlier in the day the smoke was incredible. During daylight I watched the smoke advancing toward the observatory at a good clip, but it did slow and appeared to be heading away from the ridges. Tonight, I can see a pink hue beneath the smoke, but no flames on any ridges. Looking further on, I can see the same hue on the smoke from the Rice fire (maybe the Rosa fire). The wind is quiet right now. They showed on the news that over at Camp Pendleton, they are having problems with fire advancing down toward the 5 Fwy. This is important for commuters to know. The wind was blowing west earlier, but the fire was moving east. How bizarre... One thing, though. I am amused at people saying, "Silly, it would have to burn down Pechanga and Redhawk before it could get us." Now that's funny! If you saw Redhawk on fire, would you wait? I suppose that was the point. Well, the Valley is quiet right now. Still see nothing east. I would appreciate any info on danger around the Hemet area, if any. Might be off topic, but I'd still appreciate a head's up.
sctschk wrote on Oct 24, 2007 12:01 AM:Finally got Channel 27 local Tem/Mur news. Pretty darned good - first local news I've heard in days! I knew that handheld UHF TV we had stuffed in the camping box would come in handy! I'll keep you all posted in what they say. ALSO - IF any reverse 911 calls go out to us, keep in mind that these are likely for LAND LINE phones only. They won't come for cell phones, or internet based phone service such as VONAGE. My parents were evac'd from Escondido and they never got a call (due to Vonage). They should probably mention that on the news....
Javier wrote on Oct 24, 2007 12:52 AM:Sorry to bother, I live in Menifee, next to Ridgemoor Elementary in the KB Home housing developments. A couple of hours ago I saw some disturbing flames in the ridges south of Newport Rd. They have been getting bigger by the hour. Do you know if there are any Fire Warnings in this area?
Betty wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:26 AM:From the wine country: I can see the first few flames coming over the top of the third ridge. Color is now orange. This is from the Poomacha fire east of the 15 fwy. Wind is still quiet. Heard the coyotes earlier tonight. Very still here.
Betty wrote on Oct 24, 2007 6:26 AM:From the wine country: I can see the first few flames coming over the top of the third ridge. Color is now orange. This is from the Poomacha fire east of the 15 fwy. Wind is still quiet. Heard the coyotes earlier tonight. Very still here.
Dawn wrote on Oct 24, 2007 6:49 AM:Does anyone know if the 15 freeway South is open? Is it possible to get to Fallbrook, Camp Pendleton, Escondido at this time?
Steve B wrote on Oct 24, 2007 6:54 AM:I-5 is closed in both directions at San Clemente, according to the tv news. Don't know about I-15.
Jen wrote on Oct 24, 2007 7:00 AM:I think the 15 is open because the news just stated to use the 15 if you need to get to San Diego and not the 5 because the 5 is closed. Not sure about the 76 or 78 to head towards escondido. I live in copper canyon below la cresta and the sky looks so dark. Any info on whats going on with the fire south of temecula? I can't see the flames anymore like I could last night? I am curious as to how many people are keeping their kids home today? My son has asthma and I am reluctant to have hime outside.
Near Pechanga Casino wrote on Oct 24, 2007 7:29 AM:I just took my daughter to school at Great Oak HS. It looked like a normal day there with kids everywhere and a ton of traffic coming and going. I got out of my car in the parking lot and took severl deep breathes. Although I could see the smoke up in the sky, I could not smell any smoke. I told my daughter to keep her cell phone on ring all day and if it rings, even during class, to answer it as it would be me calling her to tell her that I'm coming for her right now.
MamaSue wrote on Oct 24, 2007 7:33 AM:I just looked out the window. I'm on Mira Loma Drive. The smoke is much thicker and my husband said that the fires seemed to be worse. I don't see where the KPBS map was updated yet. Anyone know where I can see an updated map, or does anyone have more information on the Rosa and Rice Fires, or any on Pendelton, or Poomacha?
To Jen wrote on Oct 24, 2007 7:36 AM:"have no info on fires" but my son has asthma also. I do not want to send my kids to school & still cannot understand why they are keeping schools open. It is very bad outside here in Temecula!!!
In Wildomar wrote on Oct 24, 2007 8:16 AM:I kept the kids home from Vista Murrieta HS which is Red Cross shelter. The last thing, in my opinion, that these evacuees need is a bunch of teenagers milling around. I see a wall of smoke in the distance but so far air quality is good in Wildomar. I have kids with asthma and am keeping them home for that reason as well. Has anyone been by the VMHS shelter? If so do you know what sort of donations would be most helpful?
Be Safe wrote on Oct 24, 2007 8:19 AM:This from the City of Temecula's Emergency Fire Information page: Emergency Fire Information This page updated at 8:06am 10/24 The City is monitoring the fire activity in the region. There are NO Mandatory Evacuations for the City of Temecula. The City of Temecula has a Reverse-911 system and will notify citizens along with the Sheriffs Department if evacuations are necessary. Rosa Fire Near Temecula Riverside County This fire has burned 350 acres and is 70 percent contained. 175 residences near Temecula are threatened. Evacuations are in progress for the communities of Deluz, Tenaja, Temecula and Temecula, as well as the Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve. Evacuation centers are established in the City of Temecula. 223 firefighters are assigned to this incident under CAL FIRE command. Roca Fire Information Line (951) 940-6985. Witch Creek Fire / Poomacha Fire, Highway 76, Pauma Valley, San Diego County The Witch fire and the Poomacha fires have officially merged and collectively remain out of control. Collectively, the two fires have burned over 200,000 acres. 600 structures burned. 625 firefighters battling that blaze. Currently 1% contained. 10/24 6:30 a.m. Poomacha Fire Information Line (619) 590-3160. For more information regarding the Riverside fires, please call 951 940-6985 or for the San Diego fires please call, 619 590-3160. Citizens may also dial 211 from any land line to obtain local information."
MIke In Redhawk wrote on Oct 24, 2007 8:31 AM:when I got up at 6:30 am the sky and smoke was like a wall covering where the school is ...I dont want my kids even breathing the air to get to school. Looked at channel 27 right away to get some local news just saw 20 minute info mercial on a steam cleaners ...ya real great news.. the sky is glowing red and I have to wacth a steam clean machine.. anyhow heard on channel 4 that a water scooper palne will be landing in lake Elsinore this morning it can swamp 1.5 acres in a pass.... at least there is no winds
temecula mom wrote on Oct 24, 2007 8:59 AM:where in temecula are they going to evacuate--please advise--i work outside the community and was going to leave thinking everything was ok around here--please advise
Good news on Rosa Fire wrote on Oct 24, 2007 9:45 AM:With heartfelt thanks to the courage and skill of the firefighters for getting this one mostly contained! From the City of Temecula webpage: "Rosa Fire "De Luz" Near Temecula Riverside County UPDATE 10/24/07 0900: Fire is 85% contained. The cause of the fire has been determined as arson. The public is urged to contact the Arson Hotline at 1-800-633-2836 with any suspect information. "Evacuation orders have been lifted and residents are permitted to return to their homes. "Roca Fire Information Line (951) 940-6985. "For more information regarding the Riverside fires, please call 951 940-6985"
be safe wrote on Oct 24, 2007 9:45 AM:what is going on in temecula---can you please advise--getting really worried with my kids in school
steve wrote on Oct 24, 2007 9:48 AM:yea, thank god the winds are so low right now, i really hope they stay this way, and hopefully, we can start getting more control on these fires today, rather than tomorrow as they were expecting
Cannot verify Be Safe's report wrote on Oct 24, 2007 9:48 AM:Cannot locate any report verifying that "evacuations are in progress for Temecula." On the contrary, it appears the closest evacuation orders, from the Rosa Fire, have been lifted.
HELLO wrote on Oct 24, 2007 9:52 AM:CAN ANYONE BRIEF ME ON WHATS GOIN IN TEMECULA AREA PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEZ
Lindsay from la cresta side of de luz wrote on Oct 24, 2007 9:57 AM:we live in a canyon, and can only see smoke. the smoke is so thick we cant tell if it's from temecula, fallbrook, palomar, or camp pendelton. We have heard nothing about evacuations. This is frightening to us. Please let us know if evacuations for the north east, la cresta/ santa rosa plateau areas should evacuate.
Nessa wrote on Oct 24, 2007 10:03 AM:To "HELLO" We seem to just be in a holding pattern. Temecula has thick smoke overhead, but not close to the ground. Smoke continues to come over the ridge and fill the area slowly. You can't see any flames/emergency vehicles on the ridge so the fires must still be out a few miles at least. I'm near Great Oak HS and live in Redhawk area with same view. We don't really know our distance from the fires at this time...
TEMECULA wrote on Oct 24, 2007 10:10 AM:CANNOT TELL EITHER--ONLY SEE SMOKE--NOONE IS POSTING ANYMORE--HELP US OUT TEMECULA --ANYONE KNOW WHATS GOING ON?
Matt wrote on Oct 24, 2007 10:11 AM:There are no evacuations for Temecula. Easiest way to check is on the city website: http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Fire+Information.htm
Sharon wrote on Oct 24, 2007 10:21 AM:I kept my kids at home today. I am stationed in Camp Pendleton. Tried to get to work this morning -- no success due to road closures in Mission and 76. As far as I can tell Temecula and Murrieta are safe.
In Wildomar wrote on Oct 24, 2007 10:55 AM:Update on shelter at Vista Murrieta High School. I just received an e-mail broadcast from the school. The shelter currently has 2 dozen families. Anyone needing info or shelter can reach them at 951-453-1902. School is in session with no outdoor activities. Part of the parking lot has been cordoned off and there is an area for pets. Looks like the wind kicked up again here, not good. I have heard from friends needing to travel north on the 15 from here that the freeway is a mess. I saw a traffic report with an accident at Lake so that might be it. I also heard they are continuing the construction at Caljaco and everything is down to a crawl. Ortega was closed this a.m. and people were turned back but news reports said it was open so not sure what the status is now. I can't find any current info for what is going on beyond Temecula. Still have smoke heading this way but no evacuations that I have heard of so I am sure the area is still safe. Have friends in Redhawk and they are not evac. so that is good. No smoke coming from La Cresta (I saw an inquiry somewhere on this board) and I have a clear view of there. All fire activity appears to be the same as yesterday from what I can see from here.
Steve B wrote on Oct 24, 2007 11:08 AM:the fires south of Temecula have not entered Riverside County, according to tv reports a short time ago.
TEMECULA wrote on Oct 24, 2007 11:10 AM:the city of temecula has just gave a very good update on its page, and according to them, we are pretty safe for now http://www.cityoftemecula.org/Temecula/Fire+Information.htm
Near Pechanga Casino wrote on Oct 24, 2007 11:12 AM:I just took my daughter to school at Great Oak HS. It looked like a normal day there with kids everywhere and a ton of traffic coming and going. I got out of my car in the parking lot and took severl deep breathes. Although I could see the smoke up in the sky, I could not smell any smoke. I told my daughter to keep her cell phone on ring all day and if it rings, even during class, to answer it as it would be me calling her to tell her that I'm coming for her right now.
Betty wrote on Oct 24, 2007 11:45 AM:Outside of Temecula in wine country: I see the Poomacha fire as now being near the second closest ridge. I can see smoking rising from the area behind the third ridge, and smoke rising from behind the second ridge. I can see no flames. The smoke is dark and dirty. The wind has been surprisingly strong early this AM, but seems to have subsided for the moment. Meanwhile, I saw on the TV that someone set a fire near Rancho Cal and Rancho Vista, which do not converge. I therefore think that it must have been near Butterfield Stage. I am not sure, but I believe they got that out. Forgive me, but I almost hope it was arson, and not a forward bomb. (Anyone setting fires is the lowest of the low...) You can get a good perspective of how far away the fire is by using MapQuest with a topographical overlay. Very interesting. There is nothing east of us.
Temecula Resident wrote on Oct 24, 2007 11:59 AM:update. 11:33am. "The Poomacha Fire located in the Valley Center area is currently 25,000 acres and threatening the communities of Escondido, Vista, and Mount Palomar. As the fire continues to burn north toward Mount Palomar Observatory it will be very visible from the southern portion of the City. This fire does not currently pose a threat to any of the residents of Morgan Hill, Vail Ranch, or unincorporated areas of Riverside County. CAL FIRE/Temecula Fire along with Temecula Police Department have deployed fire and police units in the Red Hawk/Wolf Creek area as a precautionary measure only. These resources will remain in the area until any potential threat from the fires burning in San Diego County have been abated."
sandy wrote on Oct 24, 2007 12:19 PM:Deluz people- the city website states DeLuz Canyon of San Diego county is evacuating, not Riverside county. big difference in area.
Betty wrote on Oct 24, 2007 12:22 PM:Outside of Temecula in wine country: I see the Poomacha fire as now being near the second closest ridge. I can see smoking rising from the area behind the third ridge, and smoke rising from behind the second ridge. I can see no flames. The smoke is dark and dirty. The wind has been surprisingly strong early this AM, but seems to have subsided for the moment. Meanwhile, I saw on the TV that someone set a fire near Rancho Cal and Rancho Vista, which do not converge. I therefore think that it must have been near Butterfield Stage. I am not sure, but I believe they got that out. Forgive me, but I almost hope it was arson, and not a forward bomb. (Anyone setting fires is the lowest of the low...) You can get a good perspective of how far away the fire is by using MapQuest with a topographical overlay. Very interesting. There is nothing east of us.
Betty wrote on Oct 24, 2007 12:27 PM:I can see flames behind the second ridge. Not a lot yet, but getting bigger. Smoke is filling the low between the second and first ridge. The whole thing looks like the top of an active volcano. The good news is, there is aerial activity. No water drops, but something going on.
Rose wrote on Oct 24, 2007 12:45 PM: I just picked up my son at GOHS near the smoking Palomar Mtn fire. The smoke there at the school is REALLY pretty bad! There were a lot of upset parents picking up their kids. UNBELIEVABLE to think they still have classes in session with this kind of unhealthy smoke around the kids. I myself can not withstand the inhalation of the smoke, it hurt my eyes, my throat and I started to get a headache. These poor kids don't have to be there.
In Wildomar wrote on Oct 24, 2007 12:54 PM:New fire in the west side of the 15 around Baxter at base of mountain. I am off Clinton Keith by 15 and can see flames from my street across freeway. Does anyone know anything. This just started within last half hour.
Michael wrote on Oct 24, 2007 12:55 PM:I live off Buterfield in Temecula and it appears that the wind has shifted some what. Yesterday we could see the smoke rising from our southern mountain ridge. Today, said ridge is covered in smoke and I was greated with a blood red sun this morning.
butterfield/nighthawk wrote on Oct 24, 2007 12:57 PM:does anyone see that small patch of smoke from the west of us. its off in the distance, but look to the west. thank goodness the airplanes are on top of it. you can see it from my window. its to the west up on the hill.
temecula wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:01 PM:i can agree with betty. from my bedroom window i can see that fire with my binoculars. but they are putting it down. i am watching the airplane respond. but if you keep watching it does flare up.
In Murrieta wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:02 PM:There is a fire on the Murrieta/Wildomar border. Big plumb of white smoke. Heard airplanes are dropping water on it, though.
Joy wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:03 PM:Theres a fire on the 15 by Wildomar... don't know yet how serious is it. I called the fire dept and they said to call back for more info and trucks were on their way. Anyone near there?
Deb wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:12 PM:Channel 27 is reporting that the fire is in Wildomar at Grand & Westly, north of Central. It is a small 2-4 acre brush fire - no structures involved.
GMan wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:13 PM:Fire is actually on the Wildomar/Lake Elsinore Border on the hills West of Grand. Planes are already droping retardant
In Wildomar wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:20 PM:I have a clear veiw of the Wildomor/Murrietta fire from here. It appears to be at the base of mountain above Grand. The planes are all over it dropping retardent and water. I will keep you posted. Still can see flames but they are right on top of it so hopefully can get put out right away.
Deanna wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:28 PM:I saw the fire that just started about 25 minutes ago. Fire truck zooming by me. I can hear the helicopters. .
Marie wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:35 PM:I just spoke with someone who resides in Bear Creek on Clinton Keith. He said "yes, there is a new fire that has started on the hillside but it looks like firefighters are getting it out." He doesn't believe there is any present threat. My home is in the Spirit Tract off Clinton Keith - He said he would call if he thought I needed to get home - he doesn't think there is cause to worry right now.
In Murrieta wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:35 PM:The Bear Creek fire is just smoldering - it looks like they have gotten it taken care of.
Deb wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:51 PM:Channel 27 reports that there are no fires near Pechanga. The smoke we are seeing is from the Poomacha & Rice Fires.
In Wildomar wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:53 PM:It appears as if the Wildomar fire is going out. Sincere thanks to the quick response of the air team. I don't see any hot spots and the smoke is white instead of the billowing black. I also just heard from my neighbor that there was a small fire started at Jackson and Nutmeg that was put out right away.
Concerned Resident wrote on Oct 24, 2007 1:59 PM:I would just like to extend my gratitude to the staff of the californian for sticking it out and covering all of this-- especially those who- it appears worked through the night namingly- Eckhouse, Zanko, Lockwood, and Boyle
temecula worry wart wrote on Oct 24, 2007 2:05 PM:as of rite now---very smokey--they have not evacuated that i know of--
tiff in s.tem. wrote on Oct 24, 2007 2:13 PM:I have dish network, so I get no local chanels, but i saw on nbc across the bottom of the screen something about rancho calif./rancho vista fire-anyone know anything about that? For people with no local channels- online 760 kfmb am. is a san diego radio but still has some good coverage of our local fires. I know there are a lot of fires throughout socal but the lack of tv coverage in fallbrook-temecula area seems strange.
M wrote on Oct 24, 2007 2:18 PM:At work right now and our home is located on the border of Murrieta/Wildomor. Any news on the progress of taking care of this fire?
Matt wrote on Oct 24, 2007 2:36 PM:Tiff - There is no fire on Rancho Calif/Rancho Vista. Rancho Vista is where they have an evacuation center and Fire/Police headquarters. They were probably saying something about that. I was just there an hour ago. No problems.
Temecula Resident wrote on Oct 24, 2007 2:37 PM:Temecula Valley Unified School District will be closing all schools on Thursday 10/25.
Brian wrote on Oct 24, 2007 2:40 PM:does anybody know what the condition of ortega highway is. someone said it was closed this morning, but will be open later today. can anybody confirm that it will be open or what the status is?? thanks....BRIAN
tiff in s. tem. wrote on Oct 24, 2007 2:51 PM:thanks matt.....and to M-my grandparents live on the murrieta/wildomar border as well,they say everything is fine and it looks like everything is out.
M wrote on Oct 24, 2007 3:09 PM:Thanks tiff....that's a load off my mind. I got worried because Grand is the next cross road by our house. Thanks again. M
A in Allen wrote on Oct 24, 2007 3:11 PM:Brian, according to CA DOT, Ortega Hwy (SR 74) is open as of 2:45 PM today. Go to www.dot.ca.gov/fireclosures.php for updates. Prayers and peace to you.
Redhawk wrote on Oct 24, 2007 3:25 PM:the smoke here in South Temecula is really bad. Does anyone know if there is a chance of evacuation?
Tom wrote on Oct 24, 2007 3:25 PM:Anybody knows if more firefighters and police have arrived in the Wolf Creek area? For what I've heard the Palomar fire is less than 10 miles south of the area.
Constantly commuting wrote on Oct 24, 2007 3:28 PM:Brian: On the Ortega this morning around 9:00a and again a couple hours ago: Driving along the flow of the work traffic (westbound A.M., eastbound P.M) was still considerably slower than usual (adding an extra 50-70 minutes to the commute) while driving against the flow of the traffic meant an extra 80+ minutes, but that was mostly just because there were two 30+ minute stops at the construction point, instead of a single 5-10 minute hiatus. >P.S.: So glad the Ortega Hwy is still open and that lovely portion of the Cleveland Nat'l Forest is untouched (hopefully remaining so through this firestorm). Hopefully a peaceful wildlife retreat for all the animals forced from the other side of the forest. >>P.P.S.: Those DESPICABLE arsonists. I hope any sentence they face includes the attempted homicide/manslaughter of hundreds, not to mention all the destruction of nature/wildlife and property.
A in Allen wrote on Oct 24, 2007 3:32 PM:Rich, CA DOT reports I-15 no traffic restrictions reported from San Diego to Temecula. A high wind advisory in effect from JCT of SR 91 (in Corona). For road conditions, go to www.dot.ca.gov/cgi-bin/roads.cgi. My prayers are with you.
E.Kay/Poet wrote on Oct 24, 2007 3:44 PM:Poem:" The Fires in Malibu":Fire, oh fire, why must such beauty be destroyed by fire. Fire, oh fire thee devistation of it all, thee consumption so complete, why, why? Fire, oh fire, why must such beauty be destroyed by fire. Fire, oh fire thee devistation of it all! Why must all the Beautiful Homes and Land be so angered in fire; Why, why, oh why; so much loss by fire, oh fire, why must such beauty be destroyed? Thee winds must cease, Oh God; Thee winds must cease; Too stop such devestation and destruction of such beauty in the magnatude; and such pain brought too so many in there losses, God be with you all.
CC wrote on Oct 24, 2007 4:35 PM:Rich, I just drove from San Diego on the 15. No traffic either direction. When you get to Rainbow, there is an active fire to the Right if you are going South. Helicopters and Fire Trucks working on the blaze. This caused a bit of a slow down, but once you are past this, no traffic (as least as of 10 minutes ago).
RainMagic wrote on Oct 24, 2007 5:11 PM:What is that smoke coming out of the hills behind Redhawk & Wolf Creek area? How come noone says anything? It really looks pretty close from my balcony here in the wine country.
CC wrote on Oct 24, 2007 5:45 PM:When I drove up from SD about an hour ago, it was pretty smokey, so I could not get a very clear view, but the smoke is farther away than it appears. The one fire that was close, was about 4 miles south of the border check. It looked like the fire fighters had surrounded it. By the way, I just saw on cityoftemecula.org that all TV schools are closed tomorrow because of the smoke.
Joe wrote on Oct 24, 2007 5:58 PM:My sincere thanks to all of you at the NC Times. I believe that sites like the City of Temecula one have finally come around and started posting timely information because of the outcry here for information. It was you all here that kept us up to speed through the night on Monday and since then. That's real 21st Century journalism...a source of timely information and change.
Chell wrote on Oct 24, 2007 6:37 PM:I live in San Diego and my sister just informed me that a Temecula Meeting is now in attendance starting at 6pm for the RedHawk community and anyone from Temecula to attend. When she returns from the meeting I will post what information she passes on to me. She resides in Redhawk.
to Chell wrote on Oct 24, 2007 7:26 PM:Any word on the meeting in Temecula yet--anybody know whats going on? Temecula you guys seem pretty quiet tonight--
k wrote on Oct 24, 2007 7:36 PM:thread on "Updates on Fire Near Temecula..." has info from town meeting.
Marie wrote on Oct 24, 2007 8:11 PM:I didnt get a chance to attend the meeting in Temecula. I'm in Redhawk and would like to know any info please. thank you.
TEMECULA FAMILY wrote on Oct 24, 2007 9:48 PM:WHERE DID EVERYONE GO? ANY WORD FROM OUT THERE--EVERYONE SAFE?
PROUD TEMECULA'N wrote on Oct 24, 2007 9:52 PM:YOU ALL REALLY NEED TO READ BLOGS FROM THE OTHER STORIES POSTED ON THIS SITE. IT IS AMAZING THE NEGATIVITY THAT IS GOING ON AROUND US--THIS SITE--EVERYONE IS STUCK LIKE GLUE HELPING EACHOTHER OUT WITH POSITIVE THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS--IT IS HEART WARMING TO KNOW I AM SURROUNDED BY SUCH A GREAT COMMUNITY--YOU ALL REALLY NEED TO CHECK OUT THOSE OTHER BLOGS...UN-BELIEVABLE HOW RUDE!!!!!!!!!!!!
Updates on fires near Temecula blog wrote on Oct 24, 2007 10:25 PM:Teri wrote on Oct 24, 2007 7:28 PM: " Just got back from a Town meeting called for the people in Redhawk, Wolf Creek and Vail Ranch homes. Was a very informative meeting, with Riverside County and Temecula Fire Officials in attendance. I will sleep a lot better tonight after attending! The smoke in Temecula is mainly from Poomacha fire and is still 12+ miles away. The Rice fire is to south about 4 miles away but Fire Chiefs feel very confident with their plan of attack, especially since we have no winds...thank GOD! They already have ground crews here in Southern Temecula watching to keep track to make sure if anything does try to come over the mountain, we are well covered with fire teams ready to pounce on them. Major KUDOS to our Temecula council, mayor and most of all...fire teams and sheriffs! You all ROCK! "
Betty wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:10 AM:From the wine country: This morning the smoke from Poomacha is covering the Eastern sky. It is clear that the fire has flanked my position, but miles away. The ridge tops are silent, but smoke fills the inbetween spaces. It is cold this AM, and NO WIND. If the media does not want the public to speculate on the status of this fire, they should report it accurately. Nobody is telling the status of this fire, and what is reported is not up to date. The major channels are acting like the fires are out. I would like to know where this fire is going. Last I heard, it was 10 miles out. It clearly burned (that is, I saw the flames myself) over the second ridge that I see. While I don't feel threatened right now, I would like to know the correct status of the Poomacha fire at the eastern side. While most of the fire MIGHT be burning toward Lake Wohlford, clearly some of it is not.
Near Pechanga Casino wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:59 PM:It hasn't really smelled or been very smokey here all day until about an hour ago. Does anyone know of any changes, or has it just gotten windier?
Near TVHS wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:15 PM:I left Temecula around 11 and returned about 3--since then it has seemed to get worse. I have been looking all over internet to see if anything is going on. Temecula channel 3 has not been updated since noon. My husband is coming South on the 15 and says it looks terrible...other than that I dont know anything--Nobody is posting today...
M wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:53 PM:Does anyone know whats going on with the evacuation center at the Sports Park on Rancho Vista--for the last 4 days--it has been packed with fire fighters and police cars and ambulances along with the Red Cross--there is noone down there but a few vehicles--ANYONE KNOW THE STATUS?
Kristen wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:29 AM:I heard the Santiago fire will cross Riverside County lines between Corona and Elsinore sometime this morning. I'm in Wildomar. Any news?
Betty wrote on Oct 26, 2007 1:21 PM:From the wine country: The smoke at ground level has lessened a tad, but is still obscuring most of the ridges. The air quality is awful. They said earlier that the wind was either blowing east, or north, but from my viewpoint it is blowing NW. Still, there is only a small breeze. I am keeping my fingers crossed that the Santiago fire does not come down very far into Riverside County. The last I heard, it was something like 2 miles from the line. The reporters said the firefighters were very worried, but were fighting tooth and nail to keep it in check. They are true warriors. But, if you look at the map from yesterday, it looks as if it could come down behind Elsinore. I heard that communities near Corona were really worried, I guess like we were/are. We are lucky we have the option of the 215 to get to other places. Go, firefighters! We're with ya!
To Kristen wrote on Oct 26, 2007 3:11 PM:Heard also that the fire fighters are working hard to contain the fire-but they are worried about the shift in winds around this time everyday.
Betty wrote on Oct 26, 2007 7:32 PM:From the wine country: Heavy smoke and light ash all day. Went to Hemet today. They have a light ashfall as well. Lots of smoke high in the sky, brown. Saw the aircraft landing for the night. One landed every ten minutes, following a tight landing pattern. Bless them! A few looked like Coast Guard colors, but don't know. Came home after dark. I can flames on the ridge, but very hard to see exactly which ridge. I think that it is the second ridge, but the flames are farther down. Definitely flames, but not a large area. A finger of flames. Don't mean to pass on bad info or cause problems, but the fire is there, seems closer, and I think still coming this way. The sky tonight at sunset was unbelievable, really creepy, and the moon is blood orange.
Bill wrote on Oct 26, 2007 8:43 PM:Betty thanks for the information! We live in Chardonnay Hills, but had to leave because of the smoke on Thursday. My wife is very sensitive to smoke. My son and I will venture back to Temecula on Sat. to see if my wife and girls can return. Is the smoke easing at all or getting worse each day in wine country?
Immanuel wrote on Oct 27, 2007 10:34 AM:I'd like to know whether or not there was an evac plan by the city/state that included people like myself who don't drive?
Immanuel Bisrat wrote on Oct 27, 2007 10:54 AM:While being evacuated, CNN said save your reciept’s because evacuee's could be reimbursed for having to be displaced during this emergency. It made it seem everyone was included, than it said those with HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE. What about the rest of us who are on fixed income? I am lucky enough to have RENTERS INSURANCE, My aparment complex is still standing, never the less we were displaced too & had to evacuate. Is there anything we can do? or just drawn in the debt of credit card bills we had to incur to feed, shelter, cloth our families?
- ESCONDIDO: Man shot dead at Fourth of July party (10463)
- TEMECULA: Protesters line intersection (6482)
- ESCONDIDO: 3 DUI arrests, 46 impounds at checkpoint (5254)
- ESCONDIDO: Border Patrol employee in custody after hatchet attack (5003)
- ESCONDIDO: City's dreams of an 'upscale' downtown may be dying (4895)