Fallbrook fire 'unpredictable"

By: North County Times
Note to readers: Updates will post at the bottom of this story | Tuesday, October 23, 2007 4:36 PM PDT ∞

FALLBROOK ---- The Rice Fire in Fallbrook appears to be destroying homes in an unpredictable pattern, John Buchanan, the public information officer for North County Fire Protection District, said this morning.

Buchanan said the fire is acting like a tornado, taking out homes outside of its path of destruction, probably from hot embers.

He said that because all available firefighters are fighting the fire or trying to save homes and because the situation is still dangerous, it could be days before a list of addresses of destroyed homes is available.

By late this morning, fire officials said the blaze had destroyed 250 homes and damaged 30 others in Fallbrook and the eastern portion of Pala Mesa Village.

Firefighters were battling a 4-mile long front of the fire in Fallbrook, where 40,000 people have fled under a mandatory evacuation, said Buchanan.

The fire is zero percent contained and is stretching from north of Mission Road almost to Highway 76 and Gird Road.

"That's where we're trying to make a stand," Buchanan said at 9:15 a.m. today.

The fire is estimated to have burned 4,000 acres and injured two civilians and one firefighter.

An estimated time of containment is not known.

"We're still dealing with very erratic winds and extreme fire behaviors," Buchanan said. "We're basically at the whim of Mother Nature."

Updates



  • Amid the charred landscape in the Red Mountain area northeast of downtown Fallbrook late Tuesday afternoon, there were several glimmers of hope for homeowners.

    Most, if not all, of the homes in the "Megan's Bluff" neighborhood were spared, as were most of those on the 200 block of Yucca Road, even though it appeared the fire had moved straight through those areas before sunrise on Tuesday morning.

    Authorities said earlier in the day that firefighters made "a lot of really good saves" in the Red Mountain area overnight and that by the afternoon many residents were returning to the area to assess the damage.

  • As of 12:20 p.m., the northern edge of the Rice Fire was moving down the north side of Red Mountain toward Willow Glen Road and De Luz.

  • As of 12:15 p.m., California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection spokesman Dave Shew said fire crews in Fallbrook were bracing for a tough fight.

    "I talked to some of the operations folks out on the line, and the winds are picking up on the ridgetops," Shew said. "The winds are picking up down here, on the ground at base camp, also. The winds that they predicted are coming. We're just going to hope that we can hold those lines."

    Shew said there would be a fire personnel briefing at 4 p.m., and a full information update by 7 p.m. with more accurate figures on the fire's acreage and perimeter.

    • 1185 comment(s)[-]Go to Top

    Jim II wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:52 AM:Hopefully we can get some pictures and better updates from Fallbrook

    high hopes wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:52 AM:Does anyone know how Green Canyon is doing?

    Pam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:55 AM:Yucca Road Update (I don't see our earlier blog): My husband is on Yucca Road at our home and monitoring the neighborhood. He noticed that 3253 Yucca Terrace has just started to catch fire. He was unable to connect via 911, but I called from Temec and the fire crew has been notified. Gordon is trying to flag down a fire truck on Mission to bring them down Yucca!

    Jeff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 9:59 AM:I'm in what would be the middle of town, just behind McDonald's, it's raining ash, no fire threat

    Licia wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:01 AM:Has anyone heard anything about the Spanish Spur area?

    Jennifer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:03 AM:Are any major channels covering this yet? How can we get more info?

    Brian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:06 AM:Can anyone confirm whether the fire has advanced west of Yucca Terrace?

    clay wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:09 AM:i just got back from driving in fallbrook. east mission rd has at least 5 homes down about a 1/2 mile west of the freeway 15. pala mesa resort is still standing and the golf course looks unharmed. people are not telling the truth about pala mesa. valley oaks trailer park looks like a war zone. downtown fallbrook is unharmed and the homes on gird by the fallbrook golf course are fine for now also. i will post more when i go out again ask if you have specific questions

    kris wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:09 AM:has it passed gird? towards green canyon?

    kris wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:10 AM:has it passed gird towards green canyon?

    Gaile wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:12 AM:actual answering machine on S. Stagecoach near Reche WORKS right now. At least I know there's power and working phone lines, but that doesn't guarantee anything.

    Osider wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:12 AM:Is there any word on the direction of the fire and if it is headed to Oceanside? Has anyone heard any news? The news stations are not able to report on the Rice Fire. Any word is greatly appreciated.

    linda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:12 AM:What happend to the other blog. thats were I got all the info. anybody know were people are writing now? Im in another country cant, watch the lokal news., I have a lot of really close friends and a home in fallbrook I need info

    tony wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:13 AM:any word if the fire is headed toward bonsall. very smoky here on n river rd and puerta del sol

    Jeff and Karen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:15 AM:Pam - we are praying for Gordon that he will find a crew to help. We heard that the Borden's house is gone . . .true?

    Pam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:15 AM:Fire dept is now on the scene at 3253 Yucca Terrace and working to put out the fire (I don't think it has touched the home yet) flames about 50 feet from the home. Thank you, thank you 911 and the Fallbrook fire department!

    Jim II wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:18 AM:My father in law is trying to get back in to Fallbrook to get some more valuables out in case the fire moves downtown. How can he get in? Everything on the east side is blocked. Any recommendations from those of you who are getting in?

    marble.mabel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:18 AM:www.cpp.usmc.mil has some useful fire info

    DRU wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:18 AM:ANY NEWS NEAR SPRING FLOWER JUST WEST OF LIVE OAK PARK???

    Christy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:19 AM:How is the Alturas rd. area? Does anyone know if we can come back into Fallbrook yet, or when? I am currently in Vista area.

    Linda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:20 AM:does anyone know anything about the area around Lupine Lane/Sage Creek/Wilt Rd? Any information would be appreciated.

    Coastal Sage Commision wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:20 AM:Thank god we saved the Chapparel & coastal sage. Too bad Tree Huggers don't care about our Health & the county taxpayers money.. Time to call TURKO FILES!!!

    Willie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:20 AM:Pam, any indication of which way the fire is moving at Yucca?

    susan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:21 AM:Check out Camp Pendleton's website for useful fire info: www.cpp.usmc.mil

    mke wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:22 AM:10:19 am Green caynon from Reche to Winterhaven was Ok. I think south to Mission is OK. Was at The VFW last night very smoky. No sizable winds at present allong Green Canyon

    clay wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:23 AM:Linda, where is the home in fallbrook, i might know what is happening

    Jose wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:24 AM:For Fallbrook area. I was able sneak in to my home this morning got some stuff. On the way out I saw Sheriffs blocking roads into Fallbrook All houses are yellow tagged.

    K wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:25 AM:Was wondering if anyone knows whether the fire is at/was at E Live Oak Park Road, between Yucca Road and N Ridge Drive? Any news will be helpful.

    Dan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:25 AM:We are in Argentina montioring the news as best we can. We live off Green Canyon, but are having a very hard time finding any details from the news on the Fallbrook fire. I appreciate any updates here that will keep us posted. We have heard that our house is fine as I type this message...

    local osider wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:27 AM:I have been driving around the outskirts of oceanside...fire is at least 15 miles away...we are not completely out of the way of the fire, but as of right now we are not in imminent danger...If you notice the winds pick up again today, there could be danger, but right now there is fallbrook between the fire and Oceanside

    arvind wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:27 AM:is oceanside going to be evacuated? is there news on this? i cant find any... i live in norcal but my parents live in oceanside. any info pleaseeee

    North Oside resident wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:27 AM:I've been scouring the internet since 5am and last I heard the fire is headed northeast of Fallbrook so Oceanside should be clear of any threats for now.

    Joshua wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:27 AM:Ok guys, here is the best I can give you for the SOUTHEAST ESCONDIDO AREA ONLY. * The homes that have primarily been destroyed are those in the SOUTHERN PART OF MOUNTAIN VIEW DRIVE around the streets of Canyon Crest Drive, Mountain Crest Glen, and another street which I couldn't get the name of last light, "Emerald something". The fires were getting pretty large in this area around 7:00pm Monday night. That's pretty muich all I know. **IM PRETTY SURE** all other areas in the south eastern portion of Escondido are fine, including HIDDEN TRAILS, AND ALL HOMES AROUND THE OAK HILL CEMETARY AREA. NOTHING HAS BURNED BELOW THE CEMETARY as of TUESDAY, 9:00AM.

    Linda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:28 AM:I just heard from friends that are on Camino Rainbow that the fire has not moved farther south towards Rainbow Valley Blvd.

    Willie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:28 AM:The other news story, "Fire crews determined to make stand in Fallbrook," with frequent updates to the comments, is found here: http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/10/23/news/top_stories/10_67_3910_22_07.txt

    Grant wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:29 AM:I drove up Sage and Down Sumac this morning. It looked like the fire line was along Pala mesa road. North of Pala Mesa was smoldering but did not see any burned houses. Had to turn around and leave back to the 76 and since then they have blocked off Sage. As of this morning all houses south of pala mesa around Sage and Sumac were fine. Drove up the 15 to temecula and from about a half mile north of 76 to well north of Mission exit both side were black with some active fires. Golf course area was hard hit.

    tracie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:29 AM:linda,they take them away when they update

    Pam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:29 AM:I apologize if this ends up being a duplicate entry, but I didn't see my 2nd post (it's been about 15 min.). The fire crew is responding to the fire at 3253 Yucca Terrace. I do not believe that the house has been affected yet -- flames are about 50 ft from home. Thank you & God Bless our Fallbrook & neighboring fire department!

    Shane in Colorado wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:29 AM:My Family is in Fallbrook....any updates maps showing where the fire is/was? They live off of Gird near Fallbrook golf course.

    Bill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:30 AM:My answering machine still working near Winterwarm Road and Alta Vista

    Martie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:30 AM:My parents, sister and brother-in-law live off Alvarado near Stagecoach. They were evacuated to Camp Pendelton yesterday about 2:30pm. My brother-in-law got back to their house via back roads about 6pm last night to get thier 5th Wheel and says the area was still not involved in fire. Anyone know any more about this area this morning?

    Tracie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:30 AM:As much as I appreciate their update, I wish it was a little more detailed.

    Retch wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:31 AM:Pam - any word on the ridge across from Yucca Terrace (along Ridge Drive/Ridge Way)? Is it still possible to get into your area or are the roads closed?

    Jeff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:31 AM:From the middle of town, again. There is absolutely no wind, dead calm. Major Market is open, skeleton crew. Still raining ash. Glad we stayed.

    jacquie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:31 AM:Just tried to return to my home about a half mile north of Arco Am/Pm on Olive Hill. Was turned back and told by police the fire is headed that way.

    Tracie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:31 AM:Gaile, thats great nws for me. Home on stagecoach/hidden walk ln. thanks!

    Diane wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:31 AM:I need to get information on the Pala Mesa Resort condos. Does anyone know for sure if they were destroyed?

    Angel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:32 AM:Does anybody know about El Paisano dr or a website that can show a acurate map?

    eddy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:32 AM:Does anyone know what streets and structures have burned?!

    scotty wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:32 AM:We live approx 1/2 mile west of Gird and understand that the fire hasn't yet come into our area. Last I heard, Gird Road was still the western border of the fire zone.

    sam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:33 AM:anyone know where we can go to help? we are vista/carlsbad and not affected to much except for smoke? want to lend a helping hand/donate????

    JessicaJ wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:35 AM:How is Live Oak elementary is there flames close, I live across the street for the school? thanks

    Lisa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:36 AM:My family gotten word that Gumtree lane is good. Our Neighbor checked it out earlier this morning and the houses are still there. But the air quality is too poor to go back to the house.

    Oscar wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:37 AM:I live in the Bay Area and am concerned for my children's safety in the Orange Glen area in northeast Escondido. Are the fires near there?

    Stuck in SB wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:38 AM:CLAY: Do you have any information on the houses that are on Nuestra Ln. off of Gird Rd?

    Mike wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:38 AM:Lake Rancho Veijo homes are fine

    Chris wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:39 AM:Any word on where the fire going? Or where it's at now?

    Rod wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:40 AM:Clay: I live on Wilt in the same area as Linda. The area is about a mile give or take, south of Reche and about a mile or mile and a half north of Pala Mesa Drive. Wilt is a two and an half mile long mountain two lane running north and south between the two street mentioned above. The south half of the street is on a ridge above the south end of the Pala mesa Country Club. If you have any information, it would be appreciated.

    Dawn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:40 AM:Is the border area of Fallbrook and Bonsall OK? More specifically Olive Hill Road at Puerta De Lomas...

    rick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:40 AM:what's going on at santa margarito rd and mission rd

    Jeff and Karen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:42 AM:Just heard KUSI 51 report that the fire is now headed back into Fallbrook and that 10% of the homes in town have either been damaged or destroyed. CDF is saying they hope for full containment sometime in the next 9 days! Zion Lutheran Fellowship Center is being used as a rest and food center for the fire fighters. God bless them.

    Michaela, AZ wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:43 AM:How are Rancho Monserate homes? Any news there? Thanks!

    Annie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:44 AM:Any news on Via del Gavilan near Gavilan Mountain in Fallbrook De Luz area?

    Geri wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:44 AM:My grandmother has a mobile in Oak Crest Mobile home park. Any news on that area? I am in Northern CA. Any news on that area?

    Forrest wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:44 AM:Any News on Santa Margarita Dr? I live at the end near the creek and river. Thanks

    Mike wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:44 AM:Lake Rancho Viejo homes off the 15 and 76 Dublin road are fine, no damage, very smokey just like everywhere else

    Jon wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:44 AM:We're in Peppertree Park across from the airpark. Lots of smoke but no visible flames. Wind is calm. Surrounded by smoke and ash. It appears that Poets Square is fine.

    DRU wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:44 AM:SPRING FLOWER ROAD by reche road and meridithh anyone have any news????? Please let me know! Tahnk you my prayers and thoughts are with all of you.

    JAW wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:45 AM:Does anybody know about the houses on/near the Fallbrook Golf Course (off Gird and Laketree)?

    Gabriele wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:47 AM:Clay: We live above Pala Mesa on Tecalote Drive in the gated community of Tecalote Oaks on Millagra Drive across the condos that burned at Pala Mesa. We were told that our houses were saved due to a water douze from the helicopter. Any chance you can confirm this at all?

    roox wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:47 AM:gird rd. X oakcliff answering machine is working there

    ryan r wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:48 AM:gird and oakcliff answering machine is picking up.

    Mike wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:49 AM:Michaela the "Rancho Monserate" homes looked fine when I drove by them 30 minutes ago.

    prlabtd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:49 AM:Hey does anyone know what is up with William H. Frazier???My best friend lives super-duper close!!!I am super scared for her and ya.If anyone knows about this please keep me updated because I am in Upland (LA area) where they are not talking about Fallbrook:(i miss Fallbrook so much!!! thanks a whole bunch, prlabtd

    Chip wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:49 AM:JAW, I call my folks place. up on the hill above Laketree estates and the phone picked up. Hope that helps.

    Kristen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:50 AM:Someone told me that there is a fire in Hidden Meadows as of this morning. Has anyone else heard this?

    Debbie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:50 AM:CLAY~~~ did you see how the homes are above the trailer park? I live on Tecalote Dr, corner of Reche and Tecalote. I'm devestated about the valley oaks.... do i still have a home? Thanks sooo much......

    Willy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:51 AM:Pala Mesa Village near 15 and 395/15 is intact. My folks were evacuated yesterday. I got a voice message from their neighbors on Via Altamira that they returned this morning to find the neighborhood intact. No other info as yet.

    Bob on Live Oak wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:52 AM:I was at my home on E. Live Oak Park Road at 8 am this morning. It is just north of Ridge Dr. on the west side of Live Oak. Most of the fire damage between Mission and Ridge Dr. was brush on the east side of Live Oak. Most homes were ok. Some yard damage and brush fire on boths sides but mostly on the east side. It appeared that most homes that could be seen from the street were ok. Still some small flames and smolder but the fire crews were not there. I think they would drive through to monitor but were letting is burn out. I was happy to see almost all homes were ok. The only one that was completely down was a farm workers house that was not in use.

    Bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:52 AM:Anyone have any information about the homes up on Via Del Cielo/Canonita off Gird Rd? It's my understanding this area is still ok...but calls home ring busy. Any confirmations of power outages or down phone lines in this area?

    Pam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:52 AM:Willie - I'm in Temec, but I believe my hubby said that the winds appeared to have shifted in a more southern direction. I just got off the phone with Gordon and he said that the fire crew was awesome; cleared the brush and put out the fire on Yucca Terrace. I will try to get an update on Ridge Way/Ridge Way!

    Cindy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:53 AM:My husband went to Gird and Laketree and as far back as Oaktree every thing is fine. There is a firetruck standing watch there.

    Jeff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:55 AM:My dad made it into the house on Ranchwood Lane this morning and said there was significant damage along Reche along the way. But everything West of Live Oak Park along Reche was still fine. Friend said his parents house just barely east of Gird (across from the back nine) was fine, apparently the fire skipped parts of that region. Another friend heard from a Sheriff that the property around her house, near the corner of Gird and Reche, was torched, but the house was saved. As of 10 a.m., there was NO entry into Fallbrook as far as I could tell.

    57CHEVY wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:55 AM:All the years I've lived in north county I've never heard of fires in Rancho Santa Fe. Larry Himmel lost his home of 25 years. Bless everyone.

    Brian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:55 AM:Has the fire reached Live Oak Park Road?

    Bill wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:55 AM:Has anybody heard about the houses above the Fallbrook Golf Course off of Palo Vista Road?

    Hal wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:56 AM:Our house on hamilton lane, answering machine still working

    Brian wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:56 AM:PAM: Fire is moving south from Yucca Terrace?

    steve wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:57 AM:we need accurate info for vista/oside/bonsal/fallbrook, etc??? it's sad to see clearly we're second class compared with the rest of San Diego cnty!

    Josh wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:57 AM:Kristen, the fire is in the QUIET HILLS area.

    Retch wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:58 AM:Thanks Pam and Bob for info on Ridge Dr area - any and all info is much appreciated. Do you know if it is still possible to get into the area?

    Franc wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:58 AM:Has anyone news of Santa Margarita and Sandia Canyon north of Fallbrook?

    JJ wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:59 AM:My parents live off of Stagecoach between Reche and Fallbrook St. near all the churches. Any updates on that area would be appreciated. Thanks to all for getting the new out.

    JJ wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:00 AM:My parents live off of Stagecoach between Reche and Fallbrook St. near all the churches. Any updates on that area would be appreciated. Thanks to all for getting the news out.

    COOKIE wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:01 AM:Any word yet on the Fallbrook fire heading toward Camp Pendleton?

    Alex wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:01 AM:Red Mountain-I understand there is fire on Red Mountain, but does anyone have more detailed information about the homes up there? I have a friend who evacuated and is trying to figure out if she still has a house. My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone.

    LCHER wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:01 AM:Anybody know of a map link that shows the riverside county evac area for the Rice fire?

    prlabtd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:01 AM:Any news where the fire is going because I thought they started to have it under control??? I am living around McDonald road any news about that.I'm not able to get the news in Fallbrook because I am in Upland(LA area).I miss Fallbrook so much and I want to be home!!!!!!!!!! Please help keep me updated thanks!!!!

    Javier wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:01 AM:i live im temec close to rainbow ive been seeing some white smoke in the south east part... towards Pechanga that takes you to pala.... any info

    JERRY wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:02 AM:any word on mission / stage coach / gum tree lane? I live right there and have no clue.

    Scott wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:03 AM:This is it!!! We get little information on Fallbrook -- which way is the fire moving; where is the next danger area; should Bonsall begin evacuation??? I've heard from 250 to 500 structures burned; 4000 to 6500 homes burned. WHAT'S THE STORY?????

    Lisa wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:04 AM:prlabtd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 10:49 AM: " Hey does anyone know what is up with William H. Frazier???My best friend lives super-duper close!!!I am super scared for her and ya.If anyone knows about this please keep me updated because I am in Upland (LA area) where they are not talking about Fallbrook:(i miss Fallbrook so much!!! thanks a whole bunch, prlabtd Yes, it's safe, so far the whole of Gumtree Lane is safe

    Bob wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:05 AM:Can you get on to Hwy 76 heading West from I-15?

    Jeff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:05 AM:KUSI 51 must have started drinking early. No way that many homes have been even touched by flames. There is no wind driving any flames anywhere near town. Turn off the news, it's only meant to scare you...

    Jennifer wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:05 AM:Tecalote Oaks homes still ok? (northwest side of Pala Mesa) I heard there was lots of thick black smoke this morning...call goes straight to voicemail (back up), not answering machine.

    Steve P wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:05 AM:Any news on the Pala Mesa Village Market and the homes behind it, Via Serra in particular

    tracy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:06 AM:How can we get a list of homes that have been destroyed? How is the area of Alta Verde and Alta Vista in Fallbrook, does anyone know?

    prlabtd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:06 AM:Does anyone live near McDonald road???i heard the fire is moving into town at like 10:30am. PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Julie wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:06 AM:We got back into our area off of mission and main, Dougherty its starting to get smokey but everything is fine. Drove down E mission to ranger,fire burned along road near ranger station. Back to stage coach & St. Peters, very smokey. Road block at Live Oak School. Green Canyon looks o.k. Major market still open. Olive Hill area fine. You can get into town from O'side by way of N.River Rd-sleeping indian-olive hill. Riverside Sheriffs directing people out though.Will try to update again

    Gene wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:06 AM:Anyone with info on homes north of Live Oak Park on Reche; Los Alisos area?

    Igor wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:07 AM: I got news this morning that Via Del Robles and Gird area ok for now. No burned homes, but much smoke. Oakcliff street ok too.Keep the prayers going.

    Patrick wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:07 AM:For God's sake, when is somebody going to report on Valley Center??? No reports; only rumors. Red Cross says it's tapped so locals have set up evac center at VCHS. Networks news says they can't get crews in to report because roads are closed but they have freekin' reporters at every house in Ranch Santa Fe and in every fire south of here. Falbrook and Valley Center have been virtually ignored by the major networks. I'm firing off pointed emails to all of them; will everyone join me and let them know we are in need of information as well?? Thanks!

    Fallbrook Resident wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:08 AM:i hope everyone is alright. And the news we are hearing is heartbreaking. Knowing its our small town. Maybe they will get better information on the tv.

    stuckoutside wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:08 AM:How are people back getting into Fallbrook? I'm trying to get access from the west. Are there roadblocks set up? Any holes in the net? I'm trying to assist a nieghbor to pump out his pool and protect our neighborhood.

    Pam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:08 AM:Jeff & Karen, Thank you for your prayers - it worked! The fire on Yucca Terrace was put out by an awesome fire team from Camp Pendleton. Other asked about access to Fallbrook - Gordon was able to access the neighborhood early this morning with a police escort. The police have been by the house twice to verify that Gordon is the home-owner; they are doing a great job to protect our homes from "looters". I am so saddened & sorry to say that we believe that the Borden's home on Ranger is gone. Do you know how to get in touch with them - we think they left early on Mon. in their trailer.

    Chris wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:09 AM:Called my sisters house on Tumblecreek Terrace and her answering machine answered.

    JP wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:09 AM:At 6:15 this morning, the fire had not moved south of the Pala Mesa Resort Clubhouse. Lots of burned areas and small fires along Old 395 and scattered around golf course, but clubhouse looked intact. Pala Mesa Rd was in good shape with no imminent threats. That was 5 hours ago, so can anyone update this info?

    Larry wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:09 AM:Where is the link to the fire map ???

    irv wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:10 AM:lisa / yvette, from what i can tell your mom's (v.m.) dream is safe. she is probably beside herself with worry. may it prove to be so. pam and my family are safe. best wishes,

    Diane wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:10 AM:I live in Bonsall and am at my residence, it is very smokey, visibility is probably less then a football field. It is perfectly calm, trees are not moving at all.

    Nancy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:10 AM:Family dogs are back home on Willowcreek in Riverview area and house is safe. Matt, how are your friends?

    I wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:11 AM:just heard on the radio they're reissuing the reverse 911 for north fallbrook/de luz/red mountain area.

    T wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:11 AM:We just came from 76. You are able to drive on the 76 from 15, but all roads into Fallbrook are closed off. Extremely smokey air and fires still burning near the 15.

    RK wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:12 AM:From the Village News: Reverse 9-1-1 is being used to issue mandatory evacuation orders to the DeLuz area. The area borders are the northern portion of Camp Pendelton on the south, the Riverside County border on the north and includes the community of Rainbow on the east. Roads are begining to tighten up again restricting flow of traffic into and out of the area.

    Babs wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:12 AM:Pam, thanks for the info about 3253 Yucca Terrace. Where are you? You guys are getting the best info on Yucca Neighbor. Thanks, again

    Chelsea wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:12 AM:does anyone know how far out on de luz the fire is or which way it's heading??

    Kendra wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:12 AM:I've read that the La Jolla Res fire has spread to the 'Yellow Brick Road' area of VC. My mom has a house on MacTan and was told the other side of the street is on fire. Any info?

    prlabtd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:12 AM:I am so scared!!!!I hate fire so freaking much!!!Those who stayed in Fallbrook get out of there or be very careful!!!! bye bye people:(

    T wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:13 AM:is it true theres a fire in DE LUZ?

    oceanside76 wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:13 AM:A great resource that I've been using to follow the fires is: http://cad.chp.ca.gov/ Click on San Diego in the upper left corner. It refreshes every 60 seconds and you can even view maps. They just reported a brush fire starting on Stewart Canyon Road.

    Val wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:13 AM:We are still at our home off of Olive Hill and Via Puerta Del Sol in Bonsall and it is smokey but otherwise fine. We have not had any evacuation calls yet.

    maria wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:14 AM:So, everything in town is okay? I live near main st. off of elder. Any information is great! Don't hear anything on the news and I feel that they are exxagerating. Are they letting back into fallbrook?

    kk wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:14 AM:MY DAD MADE IT BACK TO HIS HOME AT THE TOP OF VIA DEL CIELO AND CANONITA OFF GIRD. HOME IS INTACT AND HE'S WATERING GROVES. SMOKE IS VERY THICK, CAN'T TELL WHERE FIRE IS.

    Tom Thompson wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:15 AM:JEFF, glad to hear the news. My mom was there this morning (Fuerte, Calmin Knolls). and gave the same report.

    Sheila wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:16 AM:Hi everyone, My sister lives on tecalote drive to the left of Pala Mesa and up the hill.Only house overlooking golf course and lots of avocados. She is in Ethiopa and desperate for some news. Can anyone help???

    Diane W wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:17 AM:Los Alisos and Via Zara status-Via Vista does anyone know if fires are active today??

    stacee wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:18 AM:talked to workers at daniel's market, they say the olive hill/76 area is fine. hope thats true -- i live right there. stay safe.

    Russ wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:18 AM:Does anybody have any information on the homes in Stewart Canyon?

    Curtis wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:19 AM:Coastal Sage Commission: You are misinformed. Chaparral and coastal sage scrub are the natural vegetation of the area. There is no other vegetation type that can replace those plant communities over large areas and that can be economically maintained. It's not possible. Grass? The spread of fire is actually enhanced by non-native grasses, which are what has usually been planted in previous revegetation attempts. It's a "feel-good" cure that is actually worse than the disease. Year-round green grass, like in the East, is not possible in this climate. If you want to point fingers, perhaps it should be at people who think it's fun to start fires and at the utilities which still, after more than a century, have not figured out how to hang power lines that are safe from predictable, naturally-occurring conditions. Aside from arson, the most frequent cause that I've heard for these fires is downed power lines and exploding transformers.

    Sharon wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:19 AM:This blog is so helpful for those of us that are far away worrying about family. Is there a way to view previous comments? Dawn as far as I know my father's house near Puerta De Lomas is fine. (I'm writing from Texas.)

    sammy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:20 AM:fire fighters are true american heroes

    Geri wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:21 AM:Any news on the Oak Crest Mobile home park in Fallbrook?

    Zane wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:21 AM:We heard earlier that Bluebell lane off of Gird had not been touched. Does anyone have an update on Bluebell? Are they letting people back in?

    prlabtd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:21 AM:Thanks Lisa i apperceate the info!!Do you know if the fire is headed up to McDonald road??PLEASE HELP ME FIGURE THIS OUT!!!!!

    Kathy H. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:21 AM:If anyone has news on the neighborhood of Country Knolls - near Stagecoach & Calabo (Palomares Court/Palomares Rd) please post. Very much appreciated!

    Colleen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:22 AM:Does anyone know if law enforcement is allowing people back in to Fallbrook. We are in Orange County off of the 5 fwy and would like to return to our home located on Morro Road (nearest cross street is Fallbrook St.

    ryan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:22 AM:anyone got any info on rainbow valley blvd?

    Veronica wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:23 AM:Is the fire any where near Bonsall? an update would be greatly appreciated

    Ann wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:24 AM:Clay, I would appreciate it if you could look and see if the fire at Reche has hit Stage Coach Ln. yet. My parents house is off of Stage Coach by St. Peter's church. Thanks so much!

    David wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:25 AM:Also, it looks like people coming over I-15, from 76 West Bound, are being diverted to Old 395 South. They don't seem to be letting them onto 76 West. Don't know the reason why (this was as of 11 AM). We were headed onto Old 395 to get into Lake Rancho Viejo.

    Porter wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:25 AM:Still not letting people into Fallbrook. People are still needing to evacuate so firefighters are able to do there job.

    Jeff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:25 AM:My answering machine is still picking up.. 1/2 mile from FB High School.

    Manuel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:26 AM:Any word on the homes on Tecalote north of Millagra Drive? My sister in law is in the air on her way back from Florida.

    prlabtd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:26 AM:Hey Shelia,Pala Mesa is now a ghost town and I am so sorry!!!It is all burned up and destroyed!I wish there was never fire!

    EP wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:27 AM:I had a friend report from S. los Alisos Drv. and all that those homes are ok, he did report that there was a home lost at the end of los Alisos.

    Pam wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:27 AM:Babs: I am in Temecula with my kids and my husband is at our home on Yucca Road (trying to monitor the neighborhood).

    Carey wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:27 AM:Any info on the Gopher Canyon area?

    chris wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:28 AM:Does anyone know if the apartments off Alvarado are alright? I didn't have enough time to grab anything but my cats.

    Shawn wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:28 AM:New fire just broke out on Camp Pendleton. 5-10 acres, spreading rapidly. Not sure exactly where it is on base.

    justin wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:28 AM:can someone tell news 8 to cover the fallbrook fire MORE! thanks

    barb wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:29 AM:trying to find out info for family how is gopher canyon area?

    Chad wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:29 AM:I live on Rock Mountain Drive and can see much of the fire line that is North of Mission Road. The fire is still working it's way down Red Mountain on the North and Northwest side. Along the west side, it looks like it has gone all the way to the bottom but my view obscured by a ridgeline between the fire and myself. My guess is it is to about Willow Glen Road. I cannot see any homes on the West side of Red Mountain that have been destroyed (if any). Smoke is obscuring some of my view but I can see many homes that the fire had passed and they are untouched. The fire started down the mountain around 2:00 A.M and downward travel was very slow. I believe almost all the houses on west side will make it through.

    Hany wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:30 AM:Hello, does anyone know about Alta Vista Road, near Green Canyon Road? The Alta Vista Estate Homes? We live on Saffron Way.

    ws wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:30 AM:I have heard that the deluz fire is heading south and has not burned any homes as of yet.it is still pretty windy here though.

    Carey wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:30 AM:Is there a blog or website available with the addresses of known houses that have burned? I noticed them on the scrolling banner on the bottom of the tv news. That would be very helpful.

    Tryin to Get My Honey Home wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:31 AM:Any word on the 76 east, 78 east and 15 north? I am trying to get my honey back home to Las Vegas!!!

    prlabtd wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:31 AM:This totally sucks!!!!!i hope my house doesn't burn!!!!!!

    Shannon wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:32 AM:Parents just went into Fallbrook. Area by Live Oak and Alvarado still ok, but the fire's going strong on the hill behind it.

    erika t. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:32 AM:Does anyone know if the fire is heading towards Temecula? Does anyone know where I can get live coverage? radio station, internet, or tv stations?

    Dave K wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:33 AM:Anyone know the status of the Pamela Drive area?

    Porter wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:33 AM:Colleen, Police are not allowing people back into their homes in Fallbrook. We snuck in early this morning but they are now repeating the mandatory evacuation calls because they are still unsure and need the room to due their jobs.

    Kathleen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:DOES ANYONE HAVE INFORMATION ON DAVIS DRIVE NEAR STAGE COACH AND EAST MISSION?

    Chuck P. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:My mom was evacuated last night, I live in Idaho and am having a hard time getting info, anyone know where they took them ?? she lives on Almond st.

    Josh wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:Any update on the buena creek area of Vista?

    KATHLEEN wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:DOES ANYONE HAVE INFORMATION ON DAVIS DRIVE NEAR STAGE COACH AND EAST MISSION?

    DAVIS DRIVE wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:DOES ANYONE HAVE INFORMATION ON DAVIS DRIVE NEAR STAGE COACH AND EAST MISSION?

    KELLIE wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:ANY ONE KNOW HOW CLOSE IT IS TO OCEANSIDE. HWY 76 @ COLLEGE BLVD? I HAVE FAMILY DOWN THERE.

    This_has_to_stop wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:Where the h$ll are the troops. We need more troops down here, espicially in the rice(fallbrook area) since its 0%!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! CONTAINED. We need more help from the air. Where is the navy, air force, army. This is 9/11 to san diego county!!!!!!!

    Jeff and Karen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:Channel 51 is reporting that ALL roads are now closed off in Fallbrook. We heard from friends that too many people were trying to get back into town and it was becomign dangerous.

    Scott wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:34 AM:A phone message from the Fallbrook/Bonsall school district announced that all schools are closed the remainder of this week. Friday, the district will decide on next week.

    Jeff and Karen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:35 AM:Channel 51 is reporting that ALL roads are now closed off in Fallbrook. We heard from friends that too many people were trying to get back into town and it was becoming dangerous.

    Ryan wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:35 AM:Green Canyon update anyone?

    Willy wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:35 AM:To Steve and others, Per my earlier message, Pala Mesa Village (and Market) are intact. My parent's neighbors (on Via Altamira) got in temporarity this morning. The apparently controlled the ridge northeast of it last night and kept it safe. I don't know how Pala Mesa Resort or the areas North or East of it have fared. Sorry. When our friends headed back up 15 to Murrietta, the smoke was too thick to see if Pala Mesa Resort was effected. My family was evauated from Valley Center at 5 am this morning. I can't get much info on that one. (Poomacha Fire). I've only "heard" that they have fire suppression (engines, tankers) at Yellow Brick Road. (which is 4 miles east of my place on Lilac and Anthony). If anyone has "confirmed" info on the Valley Center area, please send it along.

    Michele wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:36 AM:Does anyone know anything about Champagne Crest located on Das Lomas?

    Clay wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:36 AM:Ann, your partents should be just fine. It hasn't hit there.

    Luis wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:36 AM:Answering Machine working on Stagecoach and Hidden walk lane (near Reche).

    Deb wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:37 AM:Does anyone know about the fire heading toward Hidden Meadows in North Escondido?

    George wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:37 AM:We just toured town from Main out Iowa St and then Mission to the 15. Cops will let you out but coming in is blocked. We tried to come back to town through Live Oak but turned around when active fire was evident before reaching Alvarado. Areas around Megan's Bluff were pretty burnt on both sides of Mission. There's a smoke column coming up from Santa Margarita valley. Winds are low, seems safe for the moment.

    Wanda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:38 AM:Does anyone know anything about the Pala/Rainbow fire? Can't find any news & now I see brown smoke (homes burning?) just on the other side of the hills from my home in SE Temecula. Thx.

    N/E Oceanside wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:38 AM:My friend who lives on Via Monserate directly overlooking the 76 says everything looks fine right now. She will notify me if the fire reaches the San Luis Rey River so we can get out of O'side. She also stated that there were some strangers wandering around the street looking at the empty houses. She and the remaining neighbors are watching for looters. Has anyone heard anything about the Deer Springs Valley fire?

    George wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:38 AM:Alvarado apts are fine.

    Steve P wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:39 AM:Any news on the La Estancia inn and mobil gas station off the 76 and 395 to include the pala mesa market and the homes behind the market, i am in Iraq and live in those houses and cannot find any info on it

    Kathleen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:40 AM:I have my two small children in Riverside county. We left quickly yesterday, and I am desperate to hear if my neighborhood was hit. We live on Davis Drive, near Stage Coach Ln and East Mission. Please- any information is much appreciated!

    GWS wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:40 AM:I'm in NorthEast Oceanside, bordering Bonsall on Highway 76(next to Home Depot for you locals). The conditions are very hazy, no wind whatsoever, heavy smell of smoke and lots of ash over everything. No warnings of evacuation at all.

    Suzanne wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:40 AM:I understand the desire to protect your OWN home. EVERYONE PLEASE LEAVE FALLBROOK NOW! So that fire fighter's can drop fire retardant on everyone's home.

    Firefighter reinforcements? wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:40 AM:Does anyone know what the status is / where I can get info on reinforcements of the heroic firefighters out there? Last I heard the Rice Canyon fire is 0% contained and it's up to Mother Nature whether the fire will start affecting Oceanside. What's the status of the fight from air?

    Bobby wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:42 AM: just talked to my friend in temecula, had to run from fire, he lives on los alisos dr and his parents on yucca terrace, daughter drove buy and both homes still there, praise God!

    christel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:42 AM:Please...any word about Fallbrook Golf course? My family lives south of it

    Nate wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:43 AM:Does anyone have any information about Megan's Bluff neighborhood?

    Larry & Catherine wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:43 AM:Our ans. machine on the west side of Hamilton Lane--no answer. Hal, glad to hear yours is working. Pat & Darlyne's is also not working. If anyone has any info. on homes on Hamilton, it would be appreciated! Yes, it is shameful that there's no news coverage, but these blogs are a great replacement!

    Alex wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:44 AM:Thank you Chad! Please let us know if you see any more of the homes.

    Jason W wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:45 AM:Any info on houses on Sunny Heights Road? This is north of E Mission between Willow Glen and Macadamia. There are 9 homes on Sunny Heights and any info would be appreciated.

    Jen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:46 AM:I have family that live on Live Oak Park Rd. between Hobbit Ln. & Los Cerritos. Does anyone have any info if the homes are ok in this area? We're so worried.

    Barbara wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:46 AM:I live on Santa Margarita Dr. evac. to daughter's house in OB. Called answering machine and it picked up

    Linda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:47 AM:Rainbow Valley Blvd is fine. My husband went back to our home to pick up some things & as of 1 hr ago no homes were burning in the vicinity. The fire in canyon at the end of Camino Rainbow has died down.

    gayle wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:47 AM:If we left yesterday what is the best way to come back into "THE BROOK"?

    living in carlsbad wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:47 AM:SHAWN: where did you hear this from about a new fire in Camp Pendleton?

    Rday wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:49 AM:Mananged to get into Fallbrook around 10:00 am. Drove down Gird from about 1/2 mile North of 76 to Reche with no signs of fire damage on either side of the road from what you can see from the road. Live Oak park appeared untouched. No signs of fire damage from Live Oak road down to Alvarado and up Alvarado. Saw fire crews working roadside off Live Oak RD about 1/4 mile past Gumtree heading North. Had to stop there. No fire damage seen up Reche from Live Oak. All schools were OK.

    Scott wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:49 AM:Anyone know about the Fallbrook Oaks community on Gird Road?

    Daniel wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:49 AM:@Kellie - 76 and College is fine. The fire is pretty far from there.

    anne wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:50 AM:heard on channel 39 about an hour ago that there were fires west of 15 on gopher canyon - does anyone know about this???

    Bobby wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:51 AM: just talked to my friend in temecula, had to run from fire, he lives on los alisos dr and his parents on yucca terrace, daughter drove buy and both homes still there, lucky!!!!!

    Oceanside76 wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:51 AM:Any other word on the fire on base that just popped up? I live outside the back gate and would like any information....most appreicated.

    Linda wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:53 AM:I just heard on the radio that Camp Pendleton is burning along Las Pulgas. Has anyone heard about that?

    Jeff and Karen wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:53 AM:Sheila, don't despair about Pala Mesa. I managed to get on the 15 South this morning and drove through the smoke to take a look. The main building was intact! Most of the area looked very burned out but could not see the condos or homes due to the smoke. So don't draw any conclusions yet! A new fire has now started around lawerence welk village

    Janet R. wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:53 AM:I just emailed Channel 8 - asking "Where are they" I haven't seen any coverage for Fallbrook in the last 24 hours....Why haven't we been receiving any news coverage?! I guess we haven't had enough homes destroyed...or our name isn't Rancho Santa Fe.

    Freeway INFO? wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:54 AM:Does anyone know if the i-15 is open to Escondido??? PLEASE ADVISE!

    MICHELE wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:54 AM:Is the fire going towards Bonsall bridge on 76? Is Vista in on alert? hows gopher canyon? anyone know? thanks

    Jeff wrote on Oct 23, 2007 11:54 AM:we made our way into Fallbrook around 10-11pm last night by way of College, N River, Sleeping Indian, Olive Hill, etc.. over to Mission, then to Winterhaven past the high school across Green Canyon and back to Via del Robles. While the smoke was bad and there was debris everywhere, the house WAS still standing. Earlier in the day the smoke was coming from almost directly east of the house. Last night we could actually see the fire burning to the northeast of us, towards the Gird/Reche area but we couldnt tell how far the flames were from us. Today a relative tried to get into Fallbrook from the south, coming up E Vista Way to the 76 and then towar