Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:29 AM:Hello everyone. Sorry, our system got overwhelmed by the volume of comments and went down for a bit, but everything should be back up and running now, so feel free to ask your questions again. I'll be here through the night with you to answer as many as I can. Thanks.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:34 AM:Escondido Resident -- The county has updated its fire burn map at 11:30 p.m. to give you a better idea of the damage area. Here's the link: http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/10242007_2330hrs_Evac_FirePerem_low72.pdf

MG at Pala wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:34 AM:Looking for info regarding the fire near Pauma and Road closure info leading into and out of Pala/Pauma area. Thanks, MG

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:38 AM:Hi MG -- Here's the latest road closure information I've got: Highway closures ---- According to the California Department of Transportation, the following closures are currently in effect as of 5:30 p.m: -- Interstate 5 truck scale station -- Interstate 15 at the northbound and southbound ramps to Mission Road -- Intestate 15 at the northbound and southbound ramps to West Bernardo/Pomerado Road -- State Route 67 from Slaughterhouse Canyon Road to State Route 78/State Route 79 -- State Route 76 from Pankey Road to State Route 79 -- State Route 78 from San Pasqual Valley Road to Santa Ysabel/State Route 79 -- State Route 79 between State Route 78 and State Route 76 -- State Route 94 from Steele Canyon to Forest Gate -- State Route 94 eastbound just east of Potrero Valley Road -- State Route 94 westbound just west of Potrero Valley Road -- State Route 188 Tecate Port of Entry Restrictions remain in place for high-profile vehicles on Interstate 8 from Alpine to the Imperial County Line. Road closure updates are available by telephone at (619) 688-6670.

Anonymous wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:38 AM:Any pictures of the fires North of Fallbrook?

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:41 AM:Anonymous -- We do not have much north of Fallbrook at this point, but should have more tomorrow.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:44 AM:For those of you asking about damage areas, the county has just updated it's assessment list for structures that were damaged Wednesday, we'll be putting in "Breaking News" shortly, and you can find the list at sdcountyemergency.com

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:48 AM:Vistan -- The official cause of the Witch Creek Fire is still under investigation. Multiple media sources have reported that it was possibly caused by a downed power line.

WestIvyKeith wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:49 AM:Is the power on in downtown/NW fallbrook? My answering machine on W Ivy is no longer picking up as of about 10pm.

worried oside resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:54 AM:are they evacuating in oceanside???? i woke up and looked out my backyard and can now see orange coming from camp pendleton. still away some. can you update on the fire there???

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:55 AM:WestIvyKeith -- SDG&E is reporting many outages throughout Fallbrook, but nothing specifically in the the northwest region. The largest outage is being reported at Pala Mesa Resort, effecting up to 2,000 customers, with an estimated fix of later this morning. The next closest reported outage is at Camp Pendleton.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:00 AM:Worried Oside Resident -- There are no evacuation orders in place in Oceanside at this time. The most up-to-date information I have on the Horno/Ammo Fire is below. It's from the CalFire Web site and updated at 7:53 p.m. (note the information line at the bottom): The Horno/Ammo Fire has burned 10,000 acres since October 23. It is currently 40-50 percent contained. Sections of that fire have threatened Interstate 5, causing its closure from Highway 76 to San Onofre. The Horno Fire has two heads, one north toward San Onofre and one south toward Pulgas Rd. Camp Pendleton authorities have relocated the residents of one housing area, San Onofre 1 and 2, to San Mateo. That relocation, which affected approximately 800 family members, was a precautionary measure in light of the proximity of the Horno fire. Horno/Ammo Fire Information Line (866) 430-2764.

Rod wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:03 AM:Lake Elsinore area ?

WestIvyKeith wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:06 AM:Thanks MD. sdcountyemergency.com's 12:35 am map shows no active burn areas in fallbrook. Can anyone confirm? If this is true it would be great.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:08 AM:Hi Rod -- The Rosa Fire info is as follows: Rosa Fire Near Temecula Riverside County This fire has burned 411 acres and is 100 percent contained. Two outbuildings were destroyed by this fire. Evacuations have been lifted and residents are allowed to return to their homes. All roads are open. 223 firefighters are assigned to this incident under CAL FIRE command. The cause of this fire is arson. Rosa Fire Information Line (951) 940-6985.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:25 AM:WestIvyKeith -- Fire officials are reporting little or no change in the Rice Canyon fire since CalFire's last update at 7:55 p.m., which was as follows: This fire has burned 9,000 acres in Rice Canyon in Northern San Diego County and is 20 percent contained. 206 homes, 2 commercial properties and 40 outbuildings have been destroyed. 1,500 homes are threatened currently. 35,000 people have been evacuated from the communities of Fallbrook and Deluz Canyon. Camp Pendleton and Oceanside are threatened. One firefighter injury has been reported. 1,095 firefighters are assigned to this fire under unified command.

Diane wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:41 AM:I wanted to know what the status is on the fire on Palomar Mountain, the Poomacha fire? And, how close is it, to the county line? Also, on the Rice fire, now that it is shifted north?

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:46 AM:Diane -- The most recent fire map from the county shows that no progression of the Rice Canyon Fire toward the county line and the Poomacha Fire with a active line that's actually pushed further south than the map at 4 p.m. Here's the link: http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/10242007_2330hrs_Evac_FirePerem_low72.pdf

Buddy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:50 AM:We are on the riverside border of De Luz, on De Luz Rd. Is the Rice fire a current danger to us?

temecula wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:51 AM:What kind of winds are expected in the morning and would they push either Rice Canyon or Poomacha north and east into Temecula? Or would they push them more to the west? Are the Pendleton fires any threat to make it further inland? Finally, is Witch in hand?

steve wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:52 AM:is there any news on the fires merging in south east temecula (palomar mt. to pechanga area) and is there any news on whether or not that area well or well not be evacutated??

View from Fire Mt. wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:00 AM:Looking north over from the rear of Lincoln jr. high, Crouch Street Sprinter is below- is this the Horno fire? (oven fire, great, the Spanish are probably laughing at all the names we've used..) http://17500mph.com/63.jpg - taken about an hour ago. it's since subsided but is now slightly re-appearing.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:06 AM:Buddy -- The Rice Canyon fire shows no growing fire line on the latest map from the county (12:30 a.m.).

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:08 AM:Steve -- The Poomacha Fire line has actually moved to the south from where it was eariler in the day on the latest information from the county. Here's the latest county fire line map: http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/10242007_2330hrs_Evac_FirePerem_low72.pdf

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:15 AM:Temecula -- Right now, winds are mild throughout the region, according to the National Weather Service, with a forecast of more light winds throughout the day and night.

temecula wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:17 AM:darn good news. Thanks, Michael.

steven wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:18 AM:when will residents in pala mesa (who still have a home) be allowed to go back?

Leslie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:18 AM:Is there any news on the San Luis Rey gate fire on Pendleton? Also, a current fire map? We live on Olive Hill (Fallbrook) and would like to know why we seem to have an extra large police presence in our area? Does anyone know if we will be able to go into Fallbrook for groceries on Thursday? Thank you.

Donna wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:23 AM:I just spoke with the guy at the Riverside County Fire Information Hotline (you have the # on your website). Basically, they don't have good communication with SD County Fire people. They seem to pretty much wait until its really close to the county line before they get involved!? They don't know what is being predicted about the fire's movements by San Diego. Living in S.E. Redhawk, you can imagine that I might be concerned about going to bed tonight! The wind has changed directions which has the smoke from the existing fire hanging over our neighborhood, it seems logical to expect the fire to follow. I know its 12 miles, but with a good strong wind we know how quickly a fire can move that distance! Is anyone working on coordinating information between the two counties on the Poomacha Fire and the Rice Canyon Fire, since both border the county line with Riverside?

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:26 AM:Steven, Leslie -- Sorry to say there's still no word on when the evacuation order in Fallbrook will be lifted, but the current fire map from the county shows no active fire line in Fallbrook. As for the back gate area, I've not heard any updates on that fire overnight. The current fire map from the county can be found here: sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/10242007_2330hrs_Evac_FirePerem_low72.pdf

Denise wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:29 AM:Are the animals safe at the wild animal park?

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:44 AM:Denise -- The Wild Animal Park reported Wednesday that two animals had died from fire-related issues, a bird and a kiang (horse family).

Judy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:47 AM:Denise, You can go to www.sandiegozoo.com for an update on the Wild Animal Park. Their website says that all but two of their 3,500+ animals are fine. Two animals died from complications related to the fire. The park may reopen today.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:50 AM:Denise -- The Wild Animal Park reported Wednesday that two animals had died from fire-related issues, a bird and a kiang.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:53 AM:If you've not seen it, we've posted our most up-to-date damage list in our "Top Stories"

LINDA wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:11 AM:MY SISTER LIVES ON RICHE RD. HER HOME HAS RED AND YELLOW TAPE ON IT. SHE HAS NOT SEEN HER HOME YET. SOMEONE CALLED HER AND TOLD HER IT IS STILL THERE. WHAT DOES THE TAPE MEAN.

Harry wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:45 AM:I am in Hong Kong and would like to know how the area of De Luz Road above just North of Pico is doing -are there any fires in the area?

Frank wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:46 AM:Does anyone know if we can return to Fallbrook yet,we are just up from the high school

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:48 AM:Frank -- The mandatory evacuation order for all of Fallbrook remains in place as of 4:47 a.m. this morning. There's been no indication as to when it may be lifted.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:51 AM:Hi Harry -- The county just updated its fire perimeter map. You can find it here: http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/10252007_0230hrs_Evac_FirePerem_low72.pdf

CurtfromRainbow wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:13 AM:It appears that only one home burned on Rice Canyon, and it was were the power line fell at dead man's curve. The fire did burn up to alot of homes as it burned south and west towards Fallbrook, but the firefighters did a great job and saved them. I am unable to tell you about the Rainbow Glenn area, other than the mobile home park there is safe. Right now there is a light Santa Ana blowing at 6 mph.

Debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:29 AM:I read in one of the articles that "some" residents may be able to return to Fallbrook "by the weekend". Are you kidding me? We need more resources devoted to the repopulation effort in Fallbrook. Why are so many other areas returning and not us? The lack of information from authorities is appalling.

Shana wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:29 AM:Harry my son got in late last night and we live in that area,, he came in from Temecula through De Luz Canyon, houses in the area you speak of are safe right now

curious wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:31 AM:Last night they were talking about a fire coming up over the hills by Lake Elsinor. Does anyone know what fire that was and if it did?

Warren wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:31 AM:Can you update us on the status of the Welk Resort?

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:36 AM:Curious -- I don't know what report you were listening to, but my guess is they may have feared the Horno Fire on Camp Pendleton could head northeast toward Lake Elsinore. The most recent update from the county shows that fireline still within Pendleton borders.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:39 AM:Warren -- Sorry, I have no specific information about Welk Resort, but the Rice Canyon Fire shows no active fire line on the most recent county fire map from 2:30 a.m.

Susan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:39 AM:We, and 35,000 other fallbrookers are stuck in Orange County, with no San Diego news - when can we go home?

anything wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:40 AM:any news on where in Valley Center a fire is burning

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:41 AM:Hi Susan -- I am sorry to say there's been little news as to when the evacuation order will be lifted in Fallbrook, but the most current county map shows no active fire line on the Rice Canyon Fire.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:48 AM:Anything -- The most recent county fire map shows some pockets of active fire activity on the east portion of Valley Center. You can find the map here: http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/10252007_0230hrs_Evac_FirePerem_low72.pdf

Anonymous wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:57 AM:As I was able to drive in Fallbrook just west of mission rd right when u get off of the 15 I saw mostly vegetation burned. Only one or two houses there looked burned. If u know the area the CDF station there was not burned, nor those plant nurseries around there.

Stage Coach Bob wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:59 AM:From S. Stage Coach Lane just north of the Riders' Field: All is calm here, and nothing has changed in a day and a half. I took a drive yesterday afternoon. Reche Rd. is closed to traffic between Green Canyon and Old 395. Went down Gird Rd. all the way to the 76, where it was blocked off, and saw absolutely no signs whatsoever of any fire damage all the way down Gird. Doubled back and went up Stage Coach and out Mission toward the 15, saw very little fire damage except for charred trees and roadside brush near Megan's Bluff. Apparently most of the damage is down in the Live Oak area and north of Megan's Bluff. Had to turn around before the I-15 junction due to road closure. The good news is that, although there must be lots of damage somewhere, It was hard to see any driving around. The town is fine - most everything's closed except Major Market. My wife tried to get in from Temecula yesterday afternoon and couldn't find a way past the road blocks, but was told they might start escorting people in a few at a time soon. I really don't see the need to keep people away for another day or two. Right now I can see stars in the sky, so the smoke is clearing too.

Anonymous wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:01 AM:For residents of fallbrook, I went down willow creek and riverside drive and it looked like most if not all of the houses there were saved mainly vegetation. I am hearing that that fire (rice Fire) is under control so far. there is national guard patrolling through fallbrook as well as a bunch of law enforcement.

mo in dc wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:01 AM:md - You're doing yeoman's work. NCT is lucky to have you.

Anonymous wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:09 AM:The only fires that can be seen are on Pendleton as of now, still look far from Fallbrook, I can see them from the weapon station. Mostly all of the Fire Dept from fallbrook are heading to Camp Pendleton near lake oneill to meet up and check the current situation here on Pendleton. Fallbrook still looks good out there so dont get stressed thinking u have lost anything

curious wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:10 AM:Iget only LA news. This morning they are reporting that the fire I was curious about is the Santiago fire. It said that you can see the glow from Lake Elsinor. They said it was 50% contained last night, but only 30% this morning. Any other news on the Santiago fire? Could it come over the hill?

Elsie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:14 AM:I used to lived in Fallbrook and still have many friends living there. I'm trying to find out if they are fine and their homes are okay. They live mostly on S.Ridge Drive and N. Ridge Drive off Live Oak Park Road, Los Alisos N Lane and Fallen Leaf and the Community Baptist Church. Any Info will be very much appreciated. We're praying for all of you.

Zach wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:14 AM:What is the status of the Eagle Crest residential area near the Wild Animal park? Thanks!

Anonymous wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:18 AM:If anybody wants info on Deluz area, we drove around there yestarday and that area looked good, Did not see any houses burned around there. I am confirming with stage coach bob's comment that megan's bluff is in great condition, just all around it is burned

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:18 AM:Curious -- CalFires was reporting Santiago as only 30 percent contained last night at 7 p.m. The Los Angeles Times was reporting this morning that the fire was threatening Williams Canyon and Hamilton Truck Trail.

Fern wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:22 AM:I can confirm bob's report. No signs of fire on Gird Rd. Live Oak Park is fine. I can't believe they won't let the people in Fallbrook return. Most of the town cooperated with the evacuation orders. If residents are not allowed back in soon, I'm afraid you will have a lot more people staying in there homes and ignoring evacuation orders next time.

Joe wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:27 AM:I agree with Fern I was thinking the same thing yesterday, next time I won't leave til I see the flames, of course I hope there isn't a next time. Let us get back to our homes and our lives.

Anonymous wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:28 AM:Hello I am an MP here at Weapons station fallbrook, I have been around Fallbrook and it looks to be in really goos shape as well as De Luz area. The Only parts of Fallbrook that were burned were by 15 right off of mission rd, mostly vegetation there, no houses were damaged in that area, If anyone knows the "PALMS 4U" nursery is still in one piece, didn't catch on fire, the other new nursery there is good, mostly vegetation on both sides. Please be patient with us we are waiting for the evacuation to be lifted as well, Last night fallbrook was smoky today is not so bad, alot of the smoke got pushed out it seems. I think everyhting west of mission road near Macadamia was untouched if I can remember right, it looked really good north of mission road too but hard to see past a few hundred feet because the smoke was so bad. I think Fallbrook is under control, we have had numerous fire trucks come through enroute to Camp Pendleton so that is a sign that Fallbrook fires could be under control. Thank you for being patient, Im trying to help anyway I can

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:33 AM:Hi Zach -- I don't have specific information on that neighborhood, but I can tell you there is no active fire line there now, according to the latest county map. I would suggest checking our list of structure damage online for more help. You can find it here: http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/10/25/news/top_stories/1_12_0010_24_07.txt

Debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:34 AM:Fern's comment is so true. Many people evacuated not because they sensed imminent danger but because they were just "following the rules". In some areas, where there was never any imminent danger AND there has been power during the entire period, residents are likely to ignore the evac orders next time. Let us in NOW if our homes are undamaged and we still have power.

RL wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:36 AM:For Linda-the tape on your sister's house means that due to evacuations the firefighters went door-to-door to be sure all residents were evacuated. It lets others know that the house is evacuated, and lets the other fire/policemen know they do not have to check that house again for residents.

Ann wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:37 AM:I will not believe them when they give us a next "mandatory evacuation." I will stay put, as did many of my neighbors and as did apparently many other Fallbrook citizens. This long stay away from perfectly good and safe homes is working a terrible hardship on people. If the fire, which never came closer than about 7 miles is now on the ground, keeping us out even 1/2 day more is ludicrous on somebody's part. I'm assuming they think God died and left them in charge. We obeyed and got out when they told us to. At this point, keeping us out is just plain wrong!

Stage Coach Bob wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:39 AM:Correction to my previous post: I said Reche was closed from Green Canyon; I meant to say closed from Gird Road to Old 395. Sorry. Everything west of Gird Road looks great.

Fred wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:48 AM:Is the power back on in Fallbrook (Macadamia area)? I thought it was still off, but someone mentioned that the power was on.

To Ann wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:50 AM:I agree it is really hard to be evacuated and then stuck out. I too am in your situation. Fire has gone through my area, now I want to go home and take care of my property. Neighbors didn't go and are there. I left due to getting animals out. Tv news coverage is terrible. Today it looks like I have to hear about how others are returning to normal. The worst part is the CHP are rude, just like when they give you tickets.

susan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:52 AM:any info on the de luz area, rock mountain/gavilan mountain split. fire maps show it red. dad lives there, was evac monday. anyone know if any homes lost?????? dad worried sick!

Debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:53 AM:MD - When will there be an announcement of some sort? They've said they're putting together a plan since yesterday. So when will we hear about it?

stat guy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:53 AM:Are Scott & Teresa Fisher O.K.?(He's principal at Poway High)

westivyHM wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:56 AM:I too would not follow the orders to leave if ever there is a next time. But we hope there will never be a next time! Enough is enough, but do you think they are keeping us out so liar Bush can come in and tell us what a great job he is doing for us?

Don wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:57 AM:I have seen too many conflicting reports on the various maps of the area just south of the Fallbrook Golf Club on Gird Rd. I live on Skycrest Dr. just west of Gird and south of the golf course. Please, does anyone have good, solid information on the status of homes in my area. Thanks, Don

VICTORIA wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:57 AM:DOES ANYONE KNOW IF THE 15 S IS OPEN TO GET FROM MURRIETA TO SAN MARCOS?

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:00 AM:Victoria -- The I-15 is open in both directions throughout San Diego County and into Murrieta with the exception of a few on and off ramps inbetween.

susan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:00 AM:15 is open, but exits are closed in fire affected areas

just curious wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:00 AM:I keep seeing these address as destroyed: 1350 ESCONDIDO BLVD #32 ESCONDIDO, 92026 1350 ESCONDIDO BLVD #33 ESCONDIDO, 92026 1350 ESCONDIDO BLVD #34 ESCONDIDO, 92026 1350 ESCONDIDO BLVD #35 ESCONDIDO, 92026 1350 ESCONDIDO BLVD #36 ESCONDIDO, 92026 Those seem to be so far from the fire and other destroyed structures. There must be a story about what happened to those apartments.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:00 AM:Debbie -- What announcement are you talking about? Fallbrook's evacuation order?

LAA wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:02 AM:Any updated news on Pauma Valley and the PV Country Club area? I am in LA and cannot find updated information on the fire location.

gauchogabe wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:04 AM:Again I agree with the reader who said "God died and left them in charge",the last Fallbrook fire I stayed in my house and this time due to pressure from friends and relatives I left, BIG mistake!!!nothing came close and now I can't go home!!!.It's plain wrong!!!

To Ann wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:04 AM:I understand your frustration we have been out of our home in Ramona since Sunday. But the fact of the matter is they have to err on the side of caution for one simple reason that we are responsible for... lawsuits. That's my opinion on the matter only. We all know the unpredictable and catastrophic nature of fires and it is entirely possible that areas that appear safe could become flare ups. My thoughts drift to those who died in the 2003 fire and had no time to evacuate...including those who burned in their cars or tried to walk out. Patience and understanding and thanking God for his mercy that your area did not burn, you have much to be thankful for over many who have lost much.

Debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:05 AM:MD - I'm talking about an announcement re when we can expect to be let in - what the process will be; what the timing will be, etc.

Stage Coach Bob wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:07 AM:Don, on my drive down Gird Road yesterday, I didn't see any signs of damage on either side of the road all the way to the 76. Fallbrook Golf Course was untouched, as was the new Sycamore area. I think you're OK. It doesn't look like the fire went west of Gird Road anywhere.

Lis wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:07 AM:Ok, We are forgetting people have lost thier homes and livelihoods and pets. The laws and rules are in place to protect us. They need room to drive the trucks and tractors that saved our homes, they need to check on the water and power to keep the disaster to the billion dollars it is at right now. How about gratitude for the firemen and women, SDG & E, police forces, military etc. who put their lives on the lines for us and our material possessions? Come on Fallbrook show them we are made of more than this! We are!

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:12 AM:Debbie -- We're making some calls this morning, hoping to get more information about when the Fallbrook evacuation order will be lifted. As soon as we hear something, I will make sure the information gets posted.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:14 AM:Fred -- SDG&E still reports several outages in the Fallbrook area, mostly in the northeast part of town.

Liz re Lawrence Welk wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:15 AM:Welk Resort is fine and not under threat. We live close by. Evacuation was probably precautionary because of the high number of elderly people. Since Deer Springs and Hidden Meadows were allowed to return last night at 6, I would imagine Welk Resort was too?

Agree with Lis wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:17 AM:We must be thankful. We have lost so much, but what we lost are mostly material things. We did not lose our spirit, our courage, and our ability to thank those who have helped us so much. Thank you.

Marianne wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:19 AM:Ann, I find your attitude appalling. It is apparent that you do not have an understanding that there are many, many folks that needed to be evacuated, not just yourself. Perhaps next time the authorities should wait til the last to notify you that your home may burn to the ground. The type of groundwork that is required during this sort of emergency is not, and cannot be, person specific. Once you have an understanding of that, you may have a little more compassion for those people in whose hands your life may rest.

Two things we need wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:19 AM:to address. 1. During an emergency as the hospitals have asked, DO NOT use the emergency rooms as your primary care, there are clinics everywhere that you can use. 2. During an emergency all instructions are given in English, residents need to know English. They do not need to be hampered in giving emergency instructions in 26 different languages.

Don wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:20 AM:Stage Coach Bob, thank you for your report. The "Google" fire map of that area is showing that the fire has moved west of Gird and south past the golf course. I hope that does not reflect recent flare ups. Don

Jeanine wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:21 AM:My parents live in Fallbrook and they have been here with me and my family in Huntington Beach since Monday night after evacuating. They want to get home as badly as the rest of you Fallbrook residents do. Exercise some patience people. Let the authorities and the firemen do their jobs to take care of the town and deem all safe before they let re-entry. God forbid, if their is a next time that a mandatory evacuation is ordered it will be your decision to heed the warning or not, just remember that if you so choose to stay you could end up being very sorry. It is for the safety of the residents of Fallbrook that this was done. In my parents' behalf i would like to thank all of the firemen whom are risking their lives to save YOUR homes. We thank you and appreciate all of your excruciatingly hard work. You Rock!!! Last but definately not least, thank you so very much to the law enforcement entities, national guard and the marines whom are keeping Fallbrook safe during this difficult time. God bless and stay safe to all of you.

Lynette wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:22 AM:Fallbrook folks, don't forget - some of the problems include power still out, and if there are water problems like there are in Ramona, you'll be stuck with having to boil water and no way to do it with no power. I know it's hard - believe me, my mom is evacuated from Fallbrook - but there is a reason for it.

Heidi wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:26 AM:I agree with Lis and Marianne. I know of people who had less than 5 minutes to get out and who lost everything up to their home!! We took the time to consider what we NEEDED to take, and were ready early. We didn't want the first responders to have to rescue us when they could be saving our house. We wanted to be sure they could maneuver--if you decide to wait next time, you are on your own, and responsible yourself if you lose anything including your life or the lives of your loved ones. Let's be reasonable and realize our village has unique concerns to be addressed that the more metropolitan, less charming areas do not. Wait, and be safe. I hope to see you alive and well on the streets of Fallbrook, not visit you in the graveyard.

Stage Coach Bob wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:28 AM:My thoughts on the evacuation: The way the winds were going a few days ago, and with as dry as everything is around here, I can see why the fire dept. wanted everyone out of harm's way. ESPCECIALLY when you consider that there were only two roads out of town (76 and Ammunition) that they had to funnel 40,000 people through. It's bad enough trying to get through Bonsall on any normal day - imagine what that might have been like with 10,000 cars all trying to get through at once with flames licking at you(edit). You wouldn't want to be at the back of that line. The evac order was a good move, but they should have lifted the order for several areas of Fallbrook yesterday.

T in TX wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:29 AM:Praise Stagecoach Bob !!! I have family that live very close to S. Stagecaoch & E. Fallbrook St., how's that area?

annoyed wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:30 AM:I know you all want to get into your homes, but the reason they evacuate you is for SAFETY, you may "think" you are safe in your home, but you don't know ALL the facts, the Fire Dept personnel KNOW what they are doing, by the way they are risking their LIVES to save your POSESSIONS, so why don't you be a little grateful?

Derek wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:31 AM:I am a Fallbrook evacuee. Yes, my family and I are anxious to get home. But it makes me very angry to read about such immature comments about "I was in no immediate danger - next time I will ignore the evacuation orders". These fires were even bigger than 2003; by all accounts the local, state, and federal officials seem to working together well; the loss of life and property has been a fraction of 2003; and Fallbrook is being extremely well patroled with zero reports of looting. To me, one of the reasons that this disaster has so well handled has been the fact that they have been "overcautious" with the evacuations - thereby freeing up fire and law enforecement officials to actually fight the fire and patrol our properties. For those of you that are way too impatient to get home, I can empathize with you. But for crissakes, use your brain, take a few breaths, and realize that the needs of the many do in fact outweigh the needs of the few.

to ANN wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:32 AM:Keeping us out is just plain smart! Crews need to be able to get in and out. Roads need to be open and firefighters need to be able to foccus on the fires not on the people. I want to say Thank You to all the people doing their jobs to keep us safe!!!!

Jim from Fallbrook wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:32 AM:To Debbie and Ann, Thank God you two are not in charge... Thease brave men put their lives in jeapordy to protect lives and property,so you two can cry about being inconvenianced... Too bad, so sad. They evacutaed all of us for a darn good reason, so people like you two... don't get yourselves and others killed trying to save your sorry butts. Get over it!

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:33 AM:Debbie, et all -- They've just announce the lifting of many evacuation orders, including Fallbrook. We'll have details shortly.

eagles crest road, ramona wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:35 AM:I think someone asked about eagles crest road off of highland valley.. took a tour and only two homes standing.. meza residence and another home. Everything else appears to be gone.

Pete wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:36 AM:Michael, We just heard on the news that they have lifted the evacuation order in the olive hill area in Fallbrook, if you were a betting man when will they allow us back into the gird valley/pala mesa area? The fire is more then 5 miles away with no active hot spots. Also, can you post any secret routes into that area that aren't being patrolled so we can go sneak home!

mike reardon wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:36 AM:I stayed at home in the Morro Hills area of Fallbrook. I am a retired firefigheter and I stayed because I felt it was relatively safe because there was little to no wind from Monday evening on. It is now time to start letting people back in to the area. Fallbrook and Bonsall are a very large area. Most of the area was not directly affected by the fire, utilities are still on, etc. They should start letting people re-populate those areas that have not been affected.

annoyed wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:37 AM:oh and by the way ANN: next time there is a fire and you decide that you are a fire behavioral specialist and do not evacuate, and a firefighter DIES because they have to come save you, I hope it's worth it. Your selfishness by not evacuating could kill people, those firefighters are risking their lives to keep people like you safe everyday. I hope their LIVES are worth you not being inconveinenced for a couple days... Oh and if I sound like I am taking it personal I am, my fiancee has been out trying to save your homes in fallbrook since Monday, with barely any sleep, or food, and this is the thanks those guys get.

Joan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:38 AM:What is the story about 76 being closed from 395 to Mission Road (westbound)? Conflicting data on the news. When will Sycamoe Ranch be "freed"?

Escondido Here wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:39 AM:Seems like everyone is getting carried away with the happy-talk, 'we're such good people stories, better than Katrina victims...blah..blah..blah'. Seems alot of the people @ Qualcomm weren't evacuees at all, but lowlifes there to steal food and supplies. Police announced last night @ the Q they'd be checking ID's after complaints, then there was a mass exodus. Only 400 - 500 remain now.

eagles crest road, ramona wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:39 AM:apparently a family on eagles crest road off of highland valley was trapped by the fire and survived by jumping in their swimming pool.. anyone from that area knows that once the fire gets there it is impossible to get in there to help. Glad to hear they survived, their home on the other hand did not.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:40 AM:Joan -- We just updated the road closure list on our "Breaking News" page. You can check here: http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/10/25/news/top_stories/alerts/doc471fcb881b762155556555.txt

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:40 AM:Pete -- We're working on those details now. We'll have them soon, I hope.

fern wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:44 AM:I agree with Bob. They need to lift the evacuation for many areas in Fallbrook. They have done a GREAT job and I am very thankful for all the fireman and law enforcement. People appreciate the efforts and caution taken. Lets not ruin it by keeping people who are miles away from any fire out of there homes.

Shana wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:45 AM:I would personally like to thank all the firefighters and police and all law enforcement for serving our communities, and protecting us to the best of thier ability. Folks they are doing thier job, they are not trying to make your life harder they are trying to save it. They are the ones that are fighting these fires, probably fought the Cedar fires too, they are the ones that see the fires shifting in the middle of the night, so please dont think so much of your self that you mistrust thier first hand knowledge of this disaster. I'm sure some of these brave men and women would rather be at home safe with thier own families. This is a time to love one another. I pray for all the families affected, and ask our good lord above to lift up those persons that are hurting, and encourage them to look for a better tomorrow as God will not give you more than you can bear. I pray for healing and thank God in heaven for the relief workers that he is providing to the fire victims. May God be with you, and may he provide you with hope and love during this time. God Bless!

Ramona Guy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:45 AM:Does Mike Donnelly or anyone have any updates on when the water will come back on in Ramona. Also, any word on when Ramona will open back up?

World Series in Fallbrook wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:48 AM:My brother in law lives in fallbrook and evacuated Monday night but returned Tuesday morning before many of the road blocks were in place - the houses along via vista are fine - other areas there are a few houses gone here and there but most are fine. He has power and watched the World Series in his own living room - My sister and her kids can't get back to her husband and dad they won't let them in. Come on already Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!

Debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:49 AM:Jim - First, learn how to spell. But more importantly, I never disputed the appropriateness of the evac order. All I've said is that failure to start letting us in to undamaged homes with power is likely to cause more people to ignore future evac orders. It's like crying wolf. Eventually you get ignored. I don't want that. I'm not crying about being inconvenienced. I'm concerned about people's reactions to future emergencies. So maybe you should learn to read as well.

Watchin my hometown burn wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:49 AM: What's happening with the Witch fire in the southern end of Rancho Santa Fe? Is that edge of the fire still advancing? (Thanks for pulling an all-nighter, Michael)

J wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:51 AM:Lake Elsinore - the big white/red Canadian seaplane parked on the lake all night. I can see it and it has not moved at all yet this AM. Does NCT staff know what is up with that?

Leslie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:51 AM:Stage Coach Bob: didn't the police stop you at any time? We left Fallbrook on Monday at 4:15 PM when the sky was black and I was concerned that if the windy part of Olive Hill caught fire we would have trouble getting out. We came back Tuesday at 10:30 AM and the sheriffs at 76 and Olive Hill were kind enough to let us come up the hill. We have been here since then sleeping in shifts and checking outside periodically. There is still a sheriff's car parked at Olive Hill and Del Valle, but why? Thank you Michael for hosting this site. It helps to hear from other people in the area who are also wanting more information. I too hope that there is never a next time, but if there is tell the news meadia that Fallbrook is non a step-child to the county. It makes you wonder when you watch the same "breaking news" piece five plus times over the course of a couple of hours. I believe too that the town of Fallbrook needs a better communication system among its residents, like this site. Thank you.

eagles crest road, ramona wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:53 AM:on the trip from eagles crest road, down highland valley road to the I-15 is full of debris. There were downed power lines and trees.. so they have to clear all that mess before people can go back and check on their properties.

Maryle wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:53 AM:NCT you are doing a great job! Is there any update as to when Lomas Serenas residents will be allowed back in? Also, the Escondido fire department issued a release either the first or second day saying 17 homes in Lomas Serenas had been damaged. I keep looking through the list and can find 9 at best - is there any more information on this? Thanks!

Julie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:55 AM:I need to know where the Veternarian in Fallbrook would have taken all the animals. I am missing a cat. I dopped it off on Monday afternoon and have not heard of where any animals may have went. Thanks!

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:57 AM:Watchin -- You're welcome. The current county map shows no active burn area on the southern edge of the Witch Creek Fire.

Mike wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:58 AM:I live in south Fallbrook near South Mission, about a mile from 76. We stayed home because, at first, it was impossible to get on the road. After that it was apparent that we were in no immediate danger as the fires were quite far from here and the wind blowing away from us. I went to a high spot and checked every couple of hours. For the other people who are still in Fallbrook and haven't ventured out, I can tell you that as of yesterday Major Market was open and fully stocked. El Toro Market was open. The Shell Station at the intersection of Main Ave. and Mission was open and actually was taking on fuel from a tanker truck yeseterday afternoon. How can they justify keeping citizens out if it is safe enough to transport a double tanker of gasoline into downtown? I believe that they are doing this, not because of fire danger, but to keep people off the roads. I have been using the back roads mostly but have driven down S. Mission to Via Encinos and seen no emergency vehicle activity at all. I think most citizens are smart enough to stay out of the way. Caution is one thing, but this is getting ridiculous.

JW Fallbrook wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:59 AM:I own a small restaurant in Fallbrook. Last night we took food we prepared to the fire crews that are "camped" at Zion Lutheran Church. Local volunteers from our community & the pastor are organizing things. Some of the firefighters were from way up in Northern California. Got up again today at 3am and cooked breakfast wraps, fresh fruit, and dropped it off to them and plan to bring more for the next shift. They were most appreciative, and both Albertsons and Major Market are going to donate groceries so we can cook. I know everyone is anxious to return and I'm sure it will be soon.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:59 AM:Hi J -- Here's the caption information we got for a freelancer that shot a photo of that plane for us (the photo's on our home page): "A water dropping plane from Canada makes a landing in Lake Elsinore where it will be stationed until needed for the wild fires in southern California."

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:00 AM:Sorry Ramona Guy, I don't have any information on the water in Ramona, but we'll make some calls and see what we can find out.

To Ramona Guy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:02 AM:Check out ramonasentinel.com they seem to be the best place for info on Ramona.

NE Oceanside wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:02 AM:I know that there are many people who want to help those who had to evacuate. Where can we take things to help them? People are camping out in store parking lots and aren't getting assistance. Where can we help?

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:02 AM:Here's the evacuation lift information in Olive Hill. Other areas to follow in "Breaking News": Fallbrook: The Olive Hill Area of Fallbrook is now open to all residents who can present a valid identification card. The area includes, all residents who live north of Burma Road and Olive Hill. Access to the community is off of Highway 76.

eagles crest road, ramona wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:07 AM:The trip from highland valley road down bandy canyon road towards the animal park a bridge burned and there is a gap on the road.

Mitch wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:09 AM:Any news on Rainbow?

Alf wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:11 AM:Is the only Cask'n'Cleaver left in San Diego County, on Mission between the 76 and downtown Fallbrook still there, unscathed? Regards, Alf.

Brian E wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:12 AM:Any word on the 5 homes on Pamela Drive? This road is just before Ranger Road when you come off of Old 395. Thanks.

Maxine wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:14 AM:I live in Oregon but my heart is in Escondido. Does anyone know if Oak Hill Cemetery is was burned and is it currently safe. Have been trying to tell by the reports but can't confirm.

John wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:16 AM:Wednesday night, on Larry King Live, two "officials" at MCAS in Miramar bragged about the efforts they made to keep the Witch fires from reaching Miramar. I live in Mira Mesa, and thankfully, we were safe. But I would like to know exactly WHAT efforts these two men were talking about? I saw nothing unusual in driving past the base. With all the real heroes fighting on the front lines of these fires, what were they taking credit for? Does anyone know?

Valley Center wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:16 AM:Has there been any evacuations lifted for the western part of VC over on the Lilac RD areas and Old Castle?

Dixie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:17 AM:Does anyone know if we can access the Olive Hill/Morro Hills area through Sleeping Indian?

Dixie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:21 AM:Can the Olive Hill area be accessed through Sleeping Indian?

eagles crest road, ramona wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:22 AM:Maxine, took a drive yesterday through escondido the cemetery seemed fine.

To Leslie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:22 AM:There are several reason why the town is sealed up like a drum. 1. Keep out the looters---and it sounds like they were chased away. 2. The Police/CHP/Sherrif/Firemen are following orders. 3. THEY know what is going on and THEY know or are developing the plan to keep everyone safe. THEY are not sitting back having a martini and having a good time. 4. Imagine the chaos if they don't have the plan in place. Do you really think they are going to let 35,000 people back into the town all at once? Think about the traffic on the 76 at 5pm on a regular day. This will take some orchestrating! They have to have the areas for assistance (like the Senior Center) set up before people enter the town. 5. Do YOU have a plan when you get back to your home?

to Escondido here wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:23 AM:How many left after they made the change in policy? It is important that we be aware of those criminal opportunists who take advantage of people at a time like this. Where can I find more info to pass on the news? Thank you.

kay wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:26 AM:there were some reports on monday about a man that was missing. his car was found in carlsbad, i think. i haven't heard anything recently. does anyone know anything about this? was he found? are there still folks looking?

susan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:27 AM:any info on the de luz area, rock mountain/gavilan mountain split. fire maps show it red. dad lives there, was evac monday. anyone know if any homes lost?????? dad worried sick! "

Jim wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:27 AM:Contrary to what the various maps show, there is no evidence of fire along either side of Gird Rd. In fact, driving down Gird looking East, you can see no charred ground. at all. The Cask & Cleaver is safe unless they had a grease fire.

Jay wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:33 AM:Where can I find the source of destroyed homes? Can anyone confirm the condition of homes on Daisy Lane in the Pala Mesa Area?

mahree wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:34 AM:john- you can visit Miramar's website at miramar.usmc.mil, click on press releases and read for yourself.

Mom in SJ wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:34 AM:What about Bonsall? Any news?

Dawn wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:34 AM:Does anyone know the extent of the damage at Pala Mesa Resort. Especially the wedding ceremony area. I heard that some parts were burned, but they were not disclosed. Thanks

Keith wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:35 AM:I find it hard to read people saying that they will not leave next time. Do you not remember New Orleans. People had been told to leave many times of storms and nothing every happened, so they stayed. Do you not remember the pictures of all the people trapped on thier roofs. Also you endanger fire fighter who now have to worry about you. I live right next the the High School and we where out of there as soon as they said anything. I have helped fight fire on more that one time during my 23year Army career and you can never be to careful!

revship wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:36 AM:Anyone know if the area near Potter is open for people to come home - specifically, Via Del Oro?

Living in VC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:37 AM:To my understanding all main roads into Valley Center are still closed. They being guarded by the National Guard personnal.

Rincon wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:38 AM:Does any one know where we can find area/home reopening information?

This is why you need to evacuate when told to do so! wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:38 AM:Posted on the UT site: Two bodies found in burned home Posted @ 7:37 AM Two bodies were discovered in a burned home in an unincorporated area northeast of Poway and the county medical examiner's office is attempting to identify them, Sheriff Bill Kolender said at a morning news briefing. That brings the toll to three people killed in the region's fires. Three others died after or while they were being evacuated, officials say. Posted by Karen Kucher

curious wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:39 AM:Good morning to you all..so whats the latest status on all the fires anyone??

Stephanie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:41 AM:Does anyone have info about Rancho Penasquitos, specifically Park Run Rd? How smokey is this area?

Oside Teach wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:45 AM:Good Morning All I have been watching several reports including this one (great job NCT) They do not want people returning for several reasons: Still dangerous flare ups gas leaks low to no water pressures- you usage will haper fighting flare ups contaminated water looting protection emergency vehicle transportation These guys and gals are spread very thin and cannot be every where to protect your house. They are letting media in (sometimes they just sneak in) so that some people cab see areas they cannot get to. hope this helps. Please be patient...

Diane wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:49 AM:Thanks for the response to my earlier message, and, the map information link. I was wondering are there any fires north of Murrieta? It looks like smoke.

Friend of Cask wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:51 AM:Response to "Alf". Yes. Cask n Cleaver still stands...unburned.

SAFallbrook wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:52 AM:Please let us know just as soon as evacuation is lifted for the Gird Road area of Fallbrook! Thanks for this website!

san clemente wants to know wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:53 AM:What's the word on the Horno fire near San O? Other than the Pendleton website, I'm not seeing much. Any imminent threat to either San Clemente or the power plant? Which way is the fire headed now? Is it hard to get word on this one because of its proximity to San Onofre?

Robin wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:58 AM:Maxine, I live near the Oak Hill Cemetary and it is fine.

Chris wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:59 AM:Re Oak Hill Cemetary: I'm not in the area, but my sister lives on Glenridge (the street that leads to the cemetary), and her house is safe, in part due to the cemetary. I don't know how close the fire got(it must have been pretty close), but I understand the cemetary is safe.

Warren wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:59 AM:My oh my.The Bush haters blamed him for the local and state officials in Louisiana for not evacuating the people before Katrina hit New Orlens. Now, in California, because their local officials did evacuate them for their own safety they blame Bush when local officials won't let them return prematurely to their homes. California politics at play?

woody wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:00 AM:we left champagne village at 7 am tuesday before a mandatory evac was declared. was there a mandatory evac of the village? has it been lifted? the maps dont really help much. we r with in-laws in riverside & would like to return home. anybody with info on champagne village?

Renae wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:02 AM:I just want to say that I thank God that all of you are safe and able to back talk about how the fires are being handeled. Debbie-the authorities are not what is appaling your lack of grattitude is what is, and if the only good comeback you can think of is dinging someone on their spelling then you are just showing your immaturity. Everyone will be allowed in when the fire is contained in that area, there are no risk of flare ups, and plainly... when it is safe. They estimate that Fallbrook residents will be allowed back by Sunday... if its earlier then praise God. I'm just thankful that everyone was evacuated before lives were lost... material possessions can be replaced, but lives cannot.

Living in VC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:02 AM:As far as I know all main roads to Valley Center are still closed.

Laura wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:04 AM:My parents live on Sky High rd, their cross street is Bandy Canyon. Does anyone know if any houses survived up there ?

Brief respite deserved wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:05 AM:That fire-dropping plane flew all the way from Canada to help us. Fires are still burning. Get them up in the air and dropping water - there are still fires out of control and we need them. Cut the red tape ! Thanks to each and every fire fighter out there. It is time for reinforcments so that those who have been on the lines for 36+ straight hours can get aome much-deserved rest. Are there more fire fighters coming for just that purpose ?

VC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:09 AM:Any news on Western Valley Center? We live of Lilac/West Lilac area, and are eager to get home. We are not getting any information of Valley Center anywhere.

Maryle wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:10 AM:All Escondido evacuations have been lifted

Valley Center 2 wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:12 AM:There's no fire even close to the Lilac Rd. area of Valley Center. My parents got evacuated for no reason other than over cautious paranoia from county officials. I'm starting to question what kind of operation this REALLY is. Let us back in already, our patience is getting very thin!!It's one thing to evacuate, and it's another to drag this BS out for days against people who are not even affected!!!!!

Jim wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:12 AM:To JW Fallbrook, thank GOD for people like your self... You are a credit! Thank You

Oak Hill ok wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:13 AM:Maxine, I just drove by the cemetery last night. No damage.

Houston wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:16 AM:Maryle, Escondido City just issued a press release saying that all evac orders for Escondido have been lifted. I assume that includes Lomas Serenas. My body may be in Houston, but my heart is with you all.

Julie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:17 AM:I live in Temecula and last night officials said they were watching the movement of the Poomacha fire. We don't have nearly as much smoke here this morning, and I read that that fire has moved south a bit. Are there any other updates as to how far that fire is from Temecula? The City's site and local news still shows the exact same information as was shown at 8 pm last night.

oldvwman wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:17 AM:I agree with the people that are frustrated to be kept out of thier homes.....We were told to evacuate on Monday and my family left for OC. I stayed behind and am glad I did. If I had left, I would be very anxious to get back. I slept in my camper at the high school Monday and Tuesday nights, but stayed at the house last night. My wife and kids want to get home and I want them to come home. It seems perfectly safe to me....Like one person said...If it is safe for a gasoline tanker to come in to town, why isn't it safe for the residents?...

Suzi wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:18 AM:Alf - The Cask'n'Cleaver is safe - no activity in that area at all!

Re: John wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:20 AM:Please stop it with the "real hero" talk. Seriously. Yes, the firefighters on the front lines are heroes, but there are others, and they are "real," too.

fedup wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:23 AM:where are the military C130s that were promised from CO and WY? I am hearing that they will not be ready to work from point magu until monday.......

celi wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:23 AM:any news on rainbow glen??????

Frustrated wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:26 AM:Those people who are evacuated are frustated. Allow them to voice their frustrations. Its not their fault. Its probably no ones fault. Some of us know our area is out of danger. I'm sure the authorities are doing the best they can. But its frustrating watching the news BLAH BLAH about those going home. And TO "ANNOYED" if your family or loved one is a fireman, thanks for them, but remember they signed up for this job. Maybe if your so annoyed you shouldn't be marrying someone in this type of job.

NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:29 AM:The sd fire maps are very little help to specifics of where in eastern valley center. They could be in brush mountains or near homes. Please try to get info.

Evacuees want to know wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:31 AM:Anyone know about the national guard being stationed on Valley Center Road at Washington? Can residents return up to the Hidden Trails area with valid ID to assess the situation? Or can they return home if there home isn't damaged or destroyed in that area?

Murrieta Mom wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:31 AM:Wow! What a change in attitude in just a few hours since I last checked! People, you need to realize that evac is not just called to protect lives - I know, in this "it's all about me" era in history, it's hard to comprehend. The firefighters and emergency crews need to be able to focus on the fires. If they have evac'd an area, they can pretty much rest assured that they don't have to worry about getting people out and they can focus on just the fire. Add people, pets, traffic to the mix - as well as those people using resources like water, straining the water pressure, etc. to the mix and it creates a very difficult situation to manage. Let's be patient, folks.

julian resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:32 AM:Does anyone know about the status of the fire line near or around the Pinehills area? Streets if possible..

Jay wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:33 AM:I live on Daisy Lane. Can anyone confirm the condition of homes on Daisy Lane in the Pala Mesa Area? I looked at the fire list (fount at : go to : http://sdcountyemergency.com/ AND THEN click on link to damaged homes: http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dplu/docs/cosd_confirmed_damage_assessments.pdf) and found 3 homes listed on Daisy Lane listed as damaged or destroyed. Can anyone verfiy these as the addresses are: 2593, 2595 and 2641. I don't think this is correct with 2593 or 2595 because the addresses on this road are not that close together.

Fallbrook Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:33 AM:Please go to this link to see a listing of homes that are damaged or are destroyed in the unicorporated areas in San Diego county: http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dplu/docs/cosd_confirmed_damage_assessments.pdf I hope this helps.

SAFallbrook wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:35 AM:Please keep us informed if they lift the evacuation on Gird @ 76. Thanks!

Question for Tony wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:35 AM:Is there still a checkpoint at Via Puerta and North RIver Road? (This is NW Bonsall NORTH of 76, an area not specifically addressed in the recent opening of access to the Olive Hill area.)

Ray wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:36 AM:Any info on Sandia Creek just south by the county line?? I am here @ Pechanga ... I know there is the Rice burn coming over Rock Mtn. its 0938 hrs ...

Scott wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:37 AM: If we live off of Olive hill by the High School, Can we get in?

Ray wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:41 AM:Our house is @ the end of Sandia Creek just south of the Riverside line ... any word? I heard the Rice fire ran over Rock Mtn ... there is a grove on either side of me but my land is fairly empty ... this BLOG ROCKS!

J wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:42 AM:Lawrence Welk Champagne Village - We received a call from Mr. Rabe, block leader for Mulberry - we can go home now.

NO AERIAL ACTIVITY wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:44 AM:Resisting the temptation to add political commentary to this useful site, I will only relay that the TV news is saying that all aerial firefighting has been stopped so that Air Force One can enter San Diego airspace. Whether his Majesty's presence is worth the loss of your home is a value judgement, I suppose.

CurtfromRainbow wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:44 AM:Celi: All I know is that the mobile home park on Rainbow Glenn is OK. I don't know about over the ridge.

Nina wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:46 AM:The google map is showing the fire is right behind Lake San Marcos and the HS, is that right?

Winterwarm Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:46 AM:Frustration level is high due to lack of information available in Los Angeles. SDGE website indicates projected time of restoration of service in unspecified areas of Fallbrook on 10/27...11:59PM (nice that they can nail it down to the minute). Previous rumor was that FPUD had a problem with potable water. Are these the issues that are blocking our return to Fallbrook? Or are they trying to stagger the ingress? Would like to make semi concrete plans instead of sitting here refreshing my pages every 5 minutes waiting for the evacuation lift.

Maxine wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:47 AM:Oak Hill OK, thank you so much for info!

Maxine wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:48 AM:I've been reading about the fire on Palomar. Was/is the observatory in danger?

Fred wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:49 AM:I just want to thank Mathew for his personal commitment to getting first hand information for the evacuees. You are awesome. Hope to get a chance to meet you when we are back home.

carrie st john wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:49 AM:Hi JW with the resturant - It's Phyllis and Frank call us please Saw your post thanks for the kindness we need info

Alf wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:50 AM:Thanks, "Jim" at 8:27AM and "Suzi" at 9:18AM. Regards, Alf.

Bad Neighbors wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:52 AM:The people who live in the Cougar pass area between VC and Hidden Meadow are jerks. I hear they are keeping that gate locked that use to let people go through there. I hope that those who they are keeping out never let them through when they want to. They are total jerks!

EVACed wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:57 AM:KUSI just said that no tanker bombers can be used today until 3 PM when Bush leaves, becuz of flight control issues for the US President's plane. Can this possibly be true?

Temecula Valley Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:58 AM:Debbie, Your attitude reminds me of some people from this area that I encountered a few months ago. I have friends that live in Fallbrook and they are anxious to go home as well. I have been keeping them informed as a result of these posts by NCT. You should quit complaining, be glad your home is not on the list of the destroyed and be thankful your home is not being looted.

Mike wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:58 AM:Scott, according to the latest information: "All residents that have access to their homes from Highway 76 to Burma Road." If you are past Burma Road you are out of luck for now. http://sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/102507_0755COUNTYWIDEFIREUPDATE94.DOC

ex fb resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:00 AM:Susan from 6:52am: Re Rock Mtn/gavilan mtn area.. Just moved from the exact area you are talking about a few mos ago. Spoke to old neighbor last nite who is still at home & everything is ok. Again, that was last nite but firefighters were down towards river valley keeping it in check. Hope that helps..

To Scott wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:00 AM:They are NOT allowing people in. I live in Bonsall and the police have blocked off our street because people use it for a short cut (long cut actually) to get to Olive Hill

NCT URGENT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:03 AM:Just heard Valley Center evacuation order lifted. May be rumor. Check it out

Gnomie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:06 AM:To Nina: NO!

Pam wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:06 AM:Does anyone know how the Ramona Wildlife Rehab Center is doing? It's on Hidden Valley Road in Ramona. Thanks from Arkansas

Mike wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:07 AM:I wish Jim would tell us the name (or least location or description) of his restaurant so that we can be sure to give him out business when this is all over.

Pam wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:08 AM:From Arkansas. Sorry, the Ramona Wildlife Rescue is on Highland Valley Road in Ramons

Laura wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:09 AM:Bad Neighbors: That's not really fair... Granted, I don't know these people, but they are just as affected by this as you, so don't hold past grudges against them. Any word on Camp Pendleton, anyone? I swooped down and got my husband yesterday; we're both out, but I'm concerned about friends, particularly in Stuart Mesa. As I was driving past the base on I5, I passed the Wilcox (formerly Margarita) fire: it was pretty bad. It was so bad, I had to use my wet bandana as a mask-- with the windows rolled up. I was still coughing when I got to the front gate.

KC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:11 AM:Here's my guess on why homeowners in VC are being kept out: Bush is probably going to VV Casino for the FF lunch. My hubby just saw a channel 8 truck get let in at the bottom of the grade but no other cars allowed in. It's all a pr stunt for Bush, while our animals suffer! Sheesh.

Gnomie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:15 AM:Channel 39 has the Prez on the ground in Escondido on Via Rancho Pkwy heading towards the 15

kc wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:16 AM:Oh, and if it's true that all air fire support was stopped due to Bush's visit, I hope the homes lost can be tracked so that the feds pay for them directly.

To Laura wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:17 AM:Trust me Cougar Pass is not affected like me!

FRUSTRATED IN ELSINORE wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:17 AM:I went to the lake this morning on my way to work to see the huge canadian water plane that landed here last night (It was quite impressive, but..) people were taking pictures, standing around laughing and talking and I thought look people the sun is up. Get that plane in the air and start helping to put out these fires. There are still precious homes and lives being threatened. Just like the news conference at Qualcomm last night. Instead of updating the people and giving them some hope, each one went on and on thanking "each other" and the Gov for everything "they" had been doing. In the middle of a crisis, they are patting each other on the back. Sitting in my comfortable house watching them on TV made me sick...I can't imagine what a family who just lost their home and was at the stadium because they had no where else to go thought. Cut the crap, get the job done and then let's talk about how wonderful everyone is. Don't mean to complain, and I am extremely grateful to our firefighters, police, etc. that are making a difference and protecting us all.

texanne wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:19 AM:to T in Tex S Stagecoach Ln and E Fallbrook Street are all A-OK. No fire damage at all. God Bless!!

Alf wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:22 AM:I must repeat what "EVACed" at 9:57AM asked, Is it true that while GWB is here there can be no tanker bombers can be used today until 3 PM when Bush leaves? Is his visit possibly costing lives and houses? Regards, Alf.

Laura wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:23 AM:Guys: as much as I dislike Bush, let's not make this a political issue. Granted, I agree with you, but this "blog" is for Q&A. I'm guessing that was Bad Neighbors that wrote me back: EVERYONE in this area is affected, be it traffic wise, health wise or financial wise. The "like me" in you last response is multiplied a million times: almost a million evacuees trying to come back, thinking about only themselves and their assets. Instead of thinking about YOU, think about people that will come back to nothing. Go waste your energy THERE instead of being angry about some gate. It's probably traffic CONTROL, anyways: safety issues. Maybe that way out or in isn't safe. Go volunteer to help with animals or the evac centers instead of wasting energy "hatin'".

Murrieta Mom wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:23 AM:Oh, knock off all the hating! Lord! If Bush didn't come, you'd all be complaining also! This is so childish - obviously, you had negative feelings about him before all this started - I just KNEW someone would find a way to blame him for this too. Use this blog for PERTINENT information.

To BUSH haters wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:24 AM:If the President did not come its his fault, and if he comes, it's also his fault. This man will not win either way. If the situation is to risky he will not come to be an interferance to the fire operation. Remember the media always blow little things into big proportions. They exagerate, that's what they are paid for, and they could not even give us news for Fallbrook, Murrieta and Temecula, unlike the NTC people are doing. So stop blaming the President.

SH wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:25 AM:KC--you should not use this blog as a Bush Bashing opportunity. Get a life.

Ann wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:25 AM:This is the "Ann" to whom a couple of you have referred to as ungrateful and unappreciative of our firemen, etc. My daughter's much loved and beautiful dream home on Wilt Road was among the first ones lost. Totally. We are all saddened and know that all was done that could have been done to save it. Now, that being said, our home is West of South Mission near Poet's Square where most of our neighbors stayed put, have power, the food in their cupboards, freezers, fridge's, etc. We don't need to be out on the streets blocking em. veh's paths. We just need to be in our homes where we can take care of ourselves. Keeping us out at this point is just wrong. I'm sorry you can't see beyond your own scope and feel yourselves to be holier than me. You aren't.

Dan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:28 AM:I really don't get all of you who are whining about getting back in your homes and blaming it on the evacuation orders?! The pure reason to call for evacuation is to allow all the resources to be working on fighting the fire and not have to worry about and take time saving lives!!! Those who stay potentially risk not only their own lives but take away resources to save property and infrastructure that everyone needs! Plus, especially in rural areas where there are often only one or two egress routes, if you wait until you see flames, it's very possible that you'll then be trapped and CAN NOT get out! With the unpredictable winds, the course of the fires is very unpredictable. "7 miles" away, as one person wrote as if that's far" can be reached within minutes with high winds! I suggest you don't fuel the fire of discontent and rebelliousness that could potentially cost lives "next time"!

To Escondido Here wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:29 AM:Where did you hear about what is going on in Qualcomm? As far as I can find in the news is that 6 people were caught getting in line a few times to collect food and supplies. And when confronted were told that they were being paid to take things of value to be sold elsewhere. The police had escorted them out and turned over to the Border Patrol. I cannot find anything about thousands of people leaving because they shouldn't have been there. Could be that they were leaving because many evac orders are being lifted and people are trying to get back home?

aerial tour wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:30 AM:The president is up int the air doing an aerial tour of the devastation with the Governor. That's the reason why fire operation is suspended BUT only for a limited time.

Katie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:31 AM:Laura, when did you pass Wilcox - today or yesterday? My husband relocated there yesterday from Las Pulgas. Rumors are that the fire is heading back easat/southeast toward fallbrook, but the only data I can find on that is on the channel 8 site (I will copy here) but it doesn't have a time/date reference so I am wondering if this is just old news. I am at Vandergrift and Douglas and we have a lot of soot/ash/canot see the sun AREAS UNDER MANDATORY EVACUATION ORDERS FALLBROOK - Fallbrook is under mandatory evacuation orders. According to the city's Sheriff's Department, the fires that started at Camp Pendleton have doubled back and are heading east toward the city. Mandatory evacuations are issued for the Bonsall, San Luis Rey Heights and Winterwarm communities on the north side of SR 76. Residents are being asked to take State Route 76 heading west away from the fires. Residents can go to the evacuation center at Mira Costa College north of SR 78 in Oceanside. The El Camino HS shelter is full. I hope this post is old and outdated? but from what you said about camp wilcox who knows....

Vistan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:33 AM:I keep hearing and seeing on the maps there's no active fire line for the Rice Fire. Does this mean it's out, fully contained, controlled, or what?

Ashamed wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:34 AM:In those of you are so concerned about only getting back to your homes. Me, me, me attitude has gotten to the point of out of control these days! Have any of you that are complaining thought about the state, insurance and FEMA having to go in and assess the areas and be able to gather data on the lost and damaged homes?? They need to be able to do this in a controlled and non-caotic environment. I understand how much you want to get home, especially for those of you who may have animals that had to be left behind. But your anger will not help. Just understand that these people saved your lives! They have been working extremely long hours for you all. I for one am just happy to have my life! Thank you SO much firefighters!!!!!!!!

Lynn wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:37 AM:Does anyone know when Ramona residents can return home and when the water will be restored?

Oside Teach wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:38 AM:Please be advised that "contained" does not mean out! With the winds changing directions and none of the fires significantly contained (most under 50%) it is still a crap shoot! Stay away and stay safe until notified. Use this time to call insurance companies and count your blessings. My heart goes out to the family in Poway whose loved ones were found DEAD this morning.... Enjoy Life!

Susan Hempler wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:39 AM:We are in Poway/Rancho Bernardo area and were just let back into our house around the Stone Ridge COutry Club yesterday. I want to use this experrience to teach my children a lesson in giving back. My children have so much and we are so fortunate to have our house standing, folks up the street from us not so lucky. I would like to go around my house today and gather clothes, stuffed animals and toys that my children can donate to other kids who have lost all of their's. Where can we take these things? Maybe the Rancho Bernardo "One Stop Shop" Center they have been talking about that will be offering assistance to those who have lost their homes? If so where is this located? Thank you!

Gerard in Temecula wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:41 AM:The news coverage has been almost NON-EXISTANT for the smaller fires-like the Fallbrook fire and the Poomacha fire. For the past 3 days, the media has focused 90% on the Malibu and the Witch fires. Hopefully next time we have a large scale diaster, the media will WAKE UP AND KEEP US ALL INFORMED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

kathleen wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:41 AM:No word on Pauma Valley, specifically Adams Road off Hwy 76. Any news?

taylor wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:42 AM:Everyone is spending lots of space on here thanking firefighters. I'd like to join them, but also add and big THANK YOU to the POLICE officers that are also out there, risking their lives and helping out with all the evacuations and shelters and such.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:44 AM:For NCT urgent... the evacuation notice for Escondido has been lifted and I'm checking on Valley Center. The county of San Diego reports all areas within the City of Escondido previously evacuated have been re-opened to residents.   The evacuation notice has also been lifted for the county’s portion of 4S Ranch All of 4S Ranch is now re-opened to residents.

JW wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:44 AM:An update...to my earlier post about cooking for the firemen. It's Joni, not Jim and we are The Lace Apron in Fallbrook. I believe La Caseta Restaurant also brought food last night. I'm pretty sure that Major Market, Albertson's & El Toro Market will donate some food. The church representative says they are okay for the day, but we will be bringing over dinner for up to 150 firefighters tonight. I'm just happy that there is something I can do to help these firefighters. They all look exhausted and we residents of Fallbrook have much to thank them for. Thanks to Lora, my #1 kitchen manager and my friend Dorreen for helping in the kitchen with today at 4am. Living in Fallbrook for almost 30 years (17 of those in De Luz,going through several fires, many floods!) , I have to say that it is a community that bands together in tough times. I'm sure that many businesses in Fallbrook will step in & help in the coming weeks.

So Cal Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:45 AM:It is a again very clear to me how self centered people can be. I was hoping to get on this site this morning and get updated facts on the fires but instead the majority of what I am reading is selfish complaints about one thing or another. Those of you who don't know if your house is standing or not and can't get info my heart bleeds for you. Those that have lost homes I can't even comprehend such a loss, I am sooo sorry. To the supportive people on this blog that are actually helping others and doing what this blog was set up for THANK YOU. Fire Personell you are AWESOME and I continue in prayer for your safety. The people that are complaining about not being able to get back into your untouched, fully operational homes, I can understand your frustration. The last few days, I am sure, have been very emotionally exhausting but to re-state what others have you have no idea why those in authority are making the calls that they are. Who are you to be second guessing them. They are trained for this, you are not. To get onto this blog or even being speaking to anyone about your, at this point, silly issues is inconsiderate and tactless. You should be on your knees thanking God that your house and neighborhood is still standing and that you are alive and well. So seriously...to all of you, SHUT UP!

Plane needed NOW wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:46 AM:Please, please get that beautiful Canadian water-drop aircraft in the air. The good people of Canada sent it here to help us and we need it now. If the Horno fire is doubling back toward Fallbrook, that aircraft along with others can stop it. If our government doesn't act quickly, the people of Fallbrook could be in for it again. Get that plain in the air !

T in TX wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:46 AM:To: texanne Thank You so much for the information ! May God Bless You !

Escondido Res wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:47 AM:To Evacuees. I live on the corner of Washington Ave. and E. Valley Pkwy. Hidden Trails is now open to traffic. E. Valley Pkwy heading toward Valley Center is still closed but some traffic is being let through by the National Guard. It may be based on ID and case by case basis. There are currently a lot of cars at the corner waiting to see if they can get through.

Dan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:48 AM:FRUSTRATED IN ELSINORE wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:17 AM, Amen to that!

Concerned wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:50 AM:Has anyone heard anything about the Poomacha fire? I live in Morgan Hill(Temecula, 79 South) Should I be concerned? And everyone needs to stop fighting, because you look like idiots!

Laura wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:50 AM:Katie: Yesterday, about 430PM. The smoke was bad and I had to slow down. I read earlier that it was 20% *contained* and no longer threatening homes; the only reasons that I'm here at my MIL's east of LA is that I can't afford to get back, haha: no money for gas if I'd have to leave again. Also, I'm in my 2nd trimester; my husband, his mother and mine suggested that I leave for my health. I would emphasize that there si not alot of coverage on that: I got that info by doing a search on NC Times site; the date was this morning. Murrieta Mom: I actually agree with you too, just because of the darned if you do, darned if you don't philosophy. If he comes, people will be like: Why aren't you helping us more? If he doesn't, people are like: Why aren't you showing us support? It's funny in a sad way...

Kim wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:50 AM:I understand the frustration for the Fallbrooker stuck in OC - I heard a glimse on TV of why they cannot lift the evacuation - There are several gas leaks in burned areas - and coals stay hot for a while after the fire. Also the water maybe contaminated and there is no electricity. The area is still considered very dangerous. The city is not intentionally makeing you stay away from your home. They are just trying to keep the residents safe!

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:51 AM:A good website for homes that have been confirmed as destroyed or damaged is http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dplu/docs/cosd_confirmed_damage_assessments.pdf

Dawn11 wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:51 AM:Has any one heard when we can get back to homes and businesses in rancho santa fe????

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:55 AM:The county has issued an update on fire-related fatalities. The report is that 10 fire-related deaths of San Diego County residents have occurred during the 2007 Wildfires. This includes three deaths directly related to the fires, three that occurred during evacuation activities and four that happened after the decedents were evacuated. The most recent fatalities included in these statistics are: Robert M. Sibbison, an 86-year-old male under hospice care, experienced shortness of breath while being evacuated via ambulance on the morning of October 24.  He died at GrossmontHospital. Priscilla Frias, a twenty-year-old female who had serious medical problems, evacuated with her family to Tijuanawhen she had difficulty breathing.  Her family transported her to San Diegofor medical attention when her breathing condition worsened.  She was transported to Scripps Mercy Hospital- Chula Vista during the early morning hours of October 24 and pronounced dead. Two sets of unidentified charred remains were found in the rubble of a completely destroyed house on Highland Valley Road in unincorporated Poway during the evening hours of October 24.  (Cause of death is pending.) Residents should call 2-1-1 for all non-emergency calls related to this fire.  Residents may also call the City of San Diego Community Access Phoneat 619-570-1070 for additional fire information. Residents can get the latest information about the status of the fires by visiting the Countyof San Diego’s Emergency Web site at www.sdcountyemergency.com.  The site has now been expanded to handle the high volume of increased traffic.

Laura wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:55 AM:Susan Hempler: Wow, people will really appreciate you :) Go to the Red Cross website to look or go to any of the evac centers with the stuff. If you have any extra hygiene stuff, like toothbrushes, paste, soap or games and movies for children, they would be VERY appreciated by those that have nothing. Thank you for doing that (I'm lucky, but thank you anyways because you're an angel and so is everyone else helping out those poor folks that lost everything.

Oside Teach wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:55 AM:Below this blog is the e-mail to the NCTimes editor and one to the webmaster. Another way to pass the time would be to send an e-mail of thanks to the editor...

julian resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:58 AM:i am addressing this question now directly to "NCT" and other Julian residents or wynola "Does anyone know about the status of the fire line near or around the Pinehills area? Streets if possible.. "

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:59 AM:For those who are interested in the Olive Hill area of Fallbrook, the evacuation notice for parts of the area has been lifted. They include: --All residents that have access to their homes from Highway 76 to Burma Road. IDs will be checked All other areas in Bonsall, south of Highway 76 are open and require no check-in.  

Vistan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:59 AM:To Oside Teach; I understand contained doesn't mean out but I'm wondering exactly what they mean when they say "no active fire line". Thanks for your attempt to clarify (and no, this is not said sarcastically).

Brian E wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:00 AM:Everyone, this is not a social blog.This is an emegency information blog. Your self-centered posts push important posts so far back into the timeline that the important questions that need to be answered are not being seen. Please, lets help each other find out about their homes, families, pets etc. NCT reporters, you are not living up to the name of this blog. We need you as you are in Fallbrook. We do not have the benefit of press credentials. Please help!!!!!!!

Escondido Res wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:02 AM:E. Valley Pkwy heading towards Valley Center is now open. The police and National Guard has left and traffic is going through. Just caution the barriers are still on the road.

Susan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:05 AM:Any info on home loses in Valley Center? specifically Fox Run Lane?

Re: Concerned wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:08 AM:The only people looking like idiots are those like yourself who constantly ask the same question about Temecula when we have all the info we need about it on the www.cityoftemecula.com website (posted MANY TIMES within these messages), which states: "Temecula in no immediate threat from a fire standpoint" RELAX, have a drink and be thankful we won't be affected by this horrible disaster.

VL wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:09 AM:To "So cal Resident" I'm glad to actually read something that it is so true, other that just only "ME" complains and blames to others, Have any of you had the time to enlist volunteer and help any one? O just take that very critical minute to pray? We can do this come on!! They are so many people in need, specially because they lost everything "some just material, that I guaranty it can be replace, but those who lost their lives, my prayers and condolences to those families. I hope that is a way to get together as a community in Temecula and Murrieta and request to the cable companies to give us more San Diego channels, We just need to make a call, they will listen to enlist 200,000 people don't you think? Thank you So cal, and to all of you who are giving great information to this page. God Bless

susanna wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:11 AM:Are there any fires threatening Temecula, Murrieta, lake Elsinore, Hemet areas??

MONICA wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:13 AM:Any news about San Pasqual Academy?

Morganhill wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:14 AM:Anything on the Poomacha Fire. I live in morganhill?

Living in VC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:16 AM:Marga Kellogg, What do you know about the main roads going into Valley Center. You are doing a great job Thank You very much

Fallbrook Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:19 AM:Left our hotel this morning on being told roads were open. Got as far as Old 395 and Rainbow Glen and police wouldn't let us go any farther. Told us no electricity and no phone service anyway, so we decided to go back to Temecula to find a room.

Jan Thomas wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:20 AM:I'm hearing rumors that Dudley's Bakery has burned down. Do you know if that's true?

Dan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:21 AM:some updates I just heard on the radio: the main reason all Fallbrook is not open yet is there is a problem with the water. 76 east to 15 is now open.

Temecula Res wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:22 AM:pe.com is reporting that the Santiago Fire is threatening Riverside County and may possibly burn through Temescal Canyon (between Corona and Lake Elsinore). Is anyone able to confirm if that is true? I don't see any info on that anywhere else.

Jack of Temecula wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:23 AM:God bless the few, who are helping the many, who have lost so much. God bless the complainers, who thanks to God are alive to complain about the authorities, the Governor and The president. God bless the fire and police officers who without their efforts, we would probably not have this blog to register complaints. Please show some love and patience, for most this will be over in a week, for some it will remain for years, just pray for them all, and stop complaining, and get off your duffs and help somebody.

FB wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:23 AM:I live in Rolling Hills Estates (76 highway and Olive Hill) technically in Fallbrook but it borders Bonsall. When can we go home? Are the roads still closed?

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:27 AM:To Rancho Santa Fe and Valley Center... The Sheriff's Department reports that the Rancho Santa Fe area has just opened. The Valley Center evacuation area remains closed as do all roads leading into the area.

sara wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:30 AM:hi are the fires in rancho santa fe contained yet??? and how far down via de la ville did it get??? i am n ot seeing any info on rancho santa fe anymore

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:31 AM:"Here's an update on state park closures: A number of State Parks have been closed and reservations cancelled. In San Diego County they are San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park, South Carlsbad State Beach, Torrey Pines State Reserve. The following state parks have cancelled all reservations through October 31. Refunds are available: Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Palomar Mountain State Park, San Elijo State Beach, Silver Strand State Beach, San Onofre State Beach.

Brian E wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:32 AM:Any Pamela Drive info?

JM wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:35 AM:Channel 10 News is reporting that authorities "hope" to allow Fallbrook residents back within the next 24 hours.

Temecula Res wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:37 AM:Any info on the Santiago Fire threatening Riverside County between Lake Elsinore and Corona (Temescal Canyon)? I read it on a different site but can't seem to confirm that info through any offical source. Would appreciate if anyone has any info on that.

Temecula-Pechanga wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:38 AM:Any updates on the Poomacha fire? Is it still burning near Morgan Hill?

Concerned wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:39 AM:Same as Kathy above: Any word on Adams Drive in Pauma Valley, at Highway 76?

Temecula Res wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:47 AM:There are lots of references to the local Temecula Channel (3 and 27) some mention Verizon or Time Warner. Does anyone know if you can view these channels if you have DirecTV?

RDL wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:47 AM:I live on Calma Court in Rancho Bernardo. This is one block North of Ranch Bernardo Drive. I know that my house is OK, but have no info on when residents can permanently return to this area. Does anyone know what the plan is?

is it true about qualcomm wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:48 AM:Is it true that the police at the Qualcomm Stadium site are requiring valid ID to prove you are an actual evacuee instead of an ordinary homeless person?

local pilot wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:48 AM:many kinds of flight operations are routinely suspended wherever the President happens to be -- the notice published by the FAA that designates temporary flight restrictions in the San Diego area specifically exempts from those restrictions any operations in support of firefighting activities

bonsall wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:51 AM:As of 11:00 AM, access to Bonsall from No. River Rd. to Via Puerta del Sol is still closed.

Kenneth wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:53 AM:Why is there no update for getting back into Ramona? All the maps show the fire well away from 67 and the down town.

Eric wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:54 AM:what is the air quality around Lawrence Welk? We evacuated my 96 year old g-ma to Huntington Beach, and she'd like to come on back. Any info please.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:54 AM:New information on Rancho Santa Fe from the County: Residents of Rancho Santa Fe can reenter their homes with the exception of the following: Del Dios Highway, the community of Del Dios. Reentry access will be limited to residents only on the following streets:Las Colinas, El Mirador, La Valle Plateada, El Vuelo, Zumaque, El Sicomoro Street

Jack of Temecula wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:58 AM:God bless the few, who are helping the many, who have lost so much. God bless the complainers, who thanks to God are alive to complain about the authorities, the Governor and The president. God bless the fire and police officers who without their efforts, we would probably not have this blog to register complaints. Please show some love and patience, for most this will be over in a week, for some it will remain for years, just pray for them all, and stop complaining, and get off your duffs and help somebody.

wheelstorejoe wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:59 AM:ATTN DON SKYVIEW: Hey Don It's your neigbor Joe. I got through to the house on Tuesday AM reallly early. The east side of the golfcourse in the foothills was smoldering. Our houses on the EAST were OK. The burn map that they had up said our area had fire, but i believe it was incorrect. It really had janice freaked out, but I'v been told by a Fallbrook Firefighter that no flare ups in the gird valley have occurred since Monday night tuesday morning.... Rest easy and let's hope they let us back in soon. Joe

AVACADO LOVER wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:59 AM: Here is Dingy Harry Reid. Folks, he is losing it. This was at a press conference yesterday about global warming and the fires in California. He has his big energy bill coming up, and he's trying to get it passed, and listen to what he said. REID: One reason that we have the fires burning in Southern California is global warming. One reason the Colorado basin is going dry is because of global warming. RUSH: There is a blatant attempt to politicize this, and people don't want to hear this right now, and everybody, "What, global warming responsible for fires?" We have fires every year. We have fires every decade. We had fires on this planet for as long as the planet's been around, lightning strikes, who knows how these fires were started. But it's a tinderbox out there. If we want to start assigning political blame, we can do that, but now is not the time. But then later on, about six minutes later, a reporter said to him: REPORTER: You said that the reason the fires are burning in California is global warming. REID: No. Here's -- here's what... I didn't say the reason the fires were burning in Southern California is global warming. RUSH: He said it and then he denied it in a period of six minutes. I want to play these two cuts back-to-back. We'll start again. This is Harry Reid late yesterday on Capitol Hill holding a press conference about global warming on fires. REID: One reason that we have the fires burning in Southern California is global warming. One reason the Colorado basin is going dry is because of global warming. REPORTER: You said that the reason the fires are burning in California is global warming. REID: No. Here's -- here's what.. I didn't say the reason the fires were burning in Southern California is global warming. RUSH: But he did. He's an idiot. He also doesn't know, we pointed this out yesterday, it's a desert! There is no water there. They have to bring water in from any number of places. They put a town -- they populated a desert -- which is fine and dandy, but it's got certain characteristics of a desert and one of those characteristics is it's dry. Then you have the wacko environmentalists who will not let anybody go in and clear out the deadwood. I told you this yesterday, Bush signed the Healthy Forests Initiative, or some such thing, I don't know what the name of it was, which was designed to let people go in there and clear out the deadwood and the kindling that's at the bottom of these forests and they've had 59 lawsuits from environmentalist wackos not allowing that to happen. So you've got a tinderbox out there. What do you make of this? Here is Harry Reid trying to politicize this, then denies saying it was about global warming after blaming global warming. No. That took place, those two bites took place at the same press conference within a span, ladies and gentlemen, of six minutes. This is the height of irresponsibility, and it goes on. Here's Barbara Boxer. She couldn't help it. This is yesterday's Senate committee hearing. BOXER: Right now we are down 50% in terms of our National Guard equipment because they're all in Iraq, the equipment, half of the equipment. So we really will need help. I think all of our states are down in terms of equipment. RUSH: So we have to politicize now the war in Iraq. We have to blame our inability to do things and put the fires out on the war in Iraq. Then California's lieutenant governor, John Garamendi, gets in on the act. He was on Hardball with Chris Matthews yesterday, who said, "Is the federal government doing what it has to do here?"

CV wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:01 PM:Here, here! I'd also like to know more about the Santiago fire

Temecu wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:01 PM:I wonder about Colorspot Nursery 2575 Olive Hill Road Fallbrook, CA 92028 is safe?

wheelstorejoe wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:06 PM:ATTN DON SKYVIEW need to re read my comments. The houses on the WEST of gird on westmont skyview were all ok as of Tuesday AM

RE: Temecula Res wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:09 PM:DirecTV does not carry the local Temecula news channel. Call them up and tell them you want it.

Cheryl wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:10 PM:Any more news about re-entry into Fallbrook? Thanks for any info.

Murrieta Mom wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:12 PM:TEMECULA RES: No, you cannot access those channels on Directv - however, if your TV has it's own tuner, you may be able to get them if you tune with your TV instead of your Directv receiver - just try changing the channels. Also, channel 12 is good for info. If you have rabbit ears or an antenna, even better. I can get 12 and 27 from the 3rd floor in my house with no antenna. Again, email the FCC and government about this silly law preventing us from viewing our own stations, please!

Temecula Valley Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:12 PM:CV, I just watched the mayor of Temecula on Channel 3. The Santiago fire has not yet crossed into Riverside County.

woods valley rd res wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:15 PM:Marga Kellogg -- Thanks so much for the Valley Center update. Hang in there, all.

AVACADO LVR wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:18 PM:HOW SAD... THE DEMOCRATS NEED TO POLITICIZE THE FIRES...BLAMING BUSH ON THE FIRES...HOW SAD... I THINK THAT THE GOVERNMENT IS DOING A GREAT JOB AND HAS LEARNED MANY LESSONS... JUST LOOK AT THE PEOPLE AT THE EVAC. CENTERS THEY ARE NOT WORRIED ABOUT POLITICS, THEY ARE TAKING CARE OF EACH OTHER... MY FAMILY AND I ARE CONTENT GIVEN THE SITUATION...

steve wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:18 PM:michael or NCT, i would just like to know if and when the rice and poomacha got any air support? any idea how many drops if any? i'd also like to know if any effort was ever made to divert supplies from places like Qualcomm to where they were needed?? just saw the national guard threaten romonians, duck fallbrookians! where were they while we were burning? tnks

Temecula Res wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:20 PM:Avacado Lover apparently takes great minutes or is a stenographer. It just took up 1/2 a page. Unbelievable when people here are trying to find out real information. I think it's a subject that could be discussed on another forum. Making this a political forum is very frustrating when you are just trying to get through the fire facts.

jimk wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:20 PM:How would you feel if you returned to find your home destroyed. Then see your neighbor stayed behind and saved his house with a garden hose since the Fire Department had inadequate resources to save your home. People that stayed appear to be able to move around without being arrested while if you try to enter from outside you will be shot.

Ann wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:22 PM:For those of us who are so anxious to get home and those who are antagonized by our need to do so, consider this: Many of Fallbrook's residents have "payday" once a month. At that time, we fill our gas tanks, buy our food supply for the month, and pay our bills. The money doesn't go much farther than that. We evacuated cooperatively when asked to do so. We packed enough food and clothing for about 4 days truly believing that would be at least adequate if not more so. Now, we are out of everything. Or will be by tomorrow morning. And we are 80 miles from home. Where there is food in our cupboards and 'fridge, the changes of clothing we would be grateful to have, etc. Good for you if your lifestyle can be held together with credit cards or cash from an ATM, but that is not the case for many of us. To the Fallbrook "powers that be", we need to be allowed to return to our homes in and around the downtown area. Actually any home West of Stagecoach and North of the 76 should be opened to returnees. PLEASE! And Thank You.

Joy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:24 PM:Thank You God for the wake up call. These fires have made us realize that all we are longing for are our possessions. God, You give and You take away. Thank You for helping us come together as a community with common needs of spiritual and emotional help. Help us remember we are not brought together because of our possessions which have become the unnecessary focus in our lives. We ask that You continue to surround the authorities and keep them safe from harm. Help us to have the strength and wisdom to do and say the right things. Thank You God.

Don wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:24 PM:Wheelstorejoe, THANKS for the info., great news!!! We would sure like to return if we can get through the roadblocks. Don

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:28 PM:Staff Writer Colleen Mensching reports that the Ramona Water District is telling residents on a recorded message that they're not allowed for now to use any water when they return. No flushing toilets. No running sinks. No sprinklers. Nothing. That's because the water system was damaged during the fire and because many residents left their sprinklers on when they fled the town, resulting in low or no water pressure.

NCT Reporter Shayna Chabner wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:29 PM:If anyone has information on the two individuals who died in a home in the unincorporated part of Poway during the Witch Fire, can you please contact reporter Shayna Chabner at (760) 740-5416.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:29 PM:Staff Writer Colleen Mensching is reporting that the Ramona Chamber of Commerce is taking phone calls from residents wanting to know if their homes survived the fire. "They're getting addresses, checking out the homes, and then calling people back to let them know if their homes are still there," she said. If you'd like to know about your house, you can call the Chamber at (760) 789-1311.

Curtis wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:30 PM:susanna wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:11 AM: " Are there any fires threatening Temecula, Murrieta, lake Elsinore, Hemet areas?? " Answer for Susanna: No. I believe the fire above Grand Ave. in Wildomar has been taken care of.

Do we or don't we evacuate? wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:31 PM:OK, imagine this, YOU are the fire fighter. You've just rushed up yet another street in an attempt to to save additional homes from the fast aproaching fire. Fire hoses out, water on...suddenly you see out of the corner of your eye several people peering from the window of the house next to the one that the fire is about to engulf. What do you do? Save the house or evacuate the people out of the house to safety? For those that listened to the evacuation notice and left, thank you, you may have saved more structures just by staying out of the way. For those of you that felt that you needed to stay...I certainly hope your neighbors house didn't burn just because the fire fighters had to divert their attention to getting you out to safety. And, lets say that was the case (because it could have happened) would you admit to your neighbors that you were the reason their house burnt to the ground or would that be your "little secret?"

TEMECULA SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED THURSDAY wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:32 PM:The Temecula Valley Unified School District will remain closed on Friday, October 26. This includes all schools and district offices. The District anticipates the air quality to improve over the week-end, and schools will be open on Monday unless otherwise noted.(10/25/07 12:30 p.m.) http://www.tvusd.k12.ca.us/

TEMECULA SCHOOLS ARE CLOSED FRIDAY... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:33 PM:The Temecula Valley Unified School District will remain closed on Friday, October 26. This includes all schools and district offices. The District anticipates the air quality to improve over the week-end, and schools will be open on Monday unless otherwise noted.(10/25/07 12:30 p.m.) http://www.tvusd.k12.ca.us/

Murrieta Res. wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:34 PM:I know its been hard being in the Temecula/Murrieta area and not being able to get any news on our neighbors. I've been able to get my news from websites such as this whom have been doing an excellent job of updating as much as they can. I have also discovered that you can go online and actually watch live feed of KUSI news in San Diego. They do a great job of covering the entire area including Fallbrook and Temecula. God bless us all.

Fallbrookian wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:41 PM:Check the San Diego County Emergency Homepage website for accurate updated information including a list of structures damaged or destroyed in the fires. Fallbrook residents of the Olive Hill area, Burma Road to 76 are being permitted to return to their homes. ID is required with an appropriate address. Bonsall south of 76 is open, no ID required. National Guard is patroling Fallbrook and escorting unauthorized persons out of town. Let's let everyone do their jobs - the firefighters will finish putting out the fires, law enforcement will prevent looting, and hopefully we will all be back home this weekend.

CV wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:41 PM:Thank you, Temecula Valley Resident!

Murrieta Mom wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:41 PM:Hopefully, NCT will allow this site to be shared - it was sent to me by my sister, who's friend is with CDF. Good source for information: http://www.inciweb.org/

Angie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:42 PM:For Eric- Lawrence Welk evac's were lifted last night. My parents are home there now and the air quality is ok. Bring G-ma back home! God bless!

Lynn wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:43 PM:Can we get in to Ramona now????

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:45 PM:For those asking about the Poomacha fire: Highway 76 is still closed. The fire is reportedly burning around Palomar Mountain and to the north and east of Pauma Valley.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:47 PM:Yes, they are requiring ID at Qualcom due to people from OUT OF THE AREA bringing trucks, loading it with cots, blankets, etc and other supplies, driving away with loads and being back within an hour to fill up again. A group was detained by police, who found out that they were being paid by a third person to take the stuff and bring it to him. These guys were found to be illegal immigrants and were turned over to INS. You know, during EVERY emergency, someone finds a way to steal some of it away from those that truly need it, so that they can make a fast (and false) buck.

Kathleen (used to be) from VC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:47 PM:any word on a flare up in VC? National Guard wouldn't let my husband up to check on work materials around noon today due to a flare up...WHERE?

J wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:52 PM:I can see the Canadian white/red seaplane is still floating on Lake Elsinore at this time and has not deployed today.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:54 PM:Regarding San Pasqual Academy, the school has some housing for alumni and families that was fire damaged, according to Jim Esterbrooks, with the County Department of Education. 19 of the 30 units were damaged. None of the classrooms or other facilities were damaged.

westivyHM wrote on Oct 25, 2007 12:54 PM:to Derek What does crissakes mean, does it have to do with the problem in Fallbrook?

REGINE wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:00 PM:This is a catastrophe that has reached the entire world with its destructive environmental polluting consequences even to the perpetrators of this unthinkable act. What a sad world we live in. My hope is to march forward and still believe in mankind as the heroic fire fighters and all the wonderful people with their kind acts demonstrated once again in these crucial hours. GOD BLLESS YOU ALL. THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

oceanside resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:01 PM:vista unified schools are closed thru monday. no students monday. employees go back monday to clean. things could change so check the website at http://www.vusd.k12.ca.us

palawrkr wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:01 PM:According to the map, everything on the 76 east of 15 is evacuated except Pala casino. So the only road in and out of there is Pala Temecula road? And if the fire moves west and that closes, you are trapped? Just wondering why they are staying open and if it is safe to go to work tonight if they are?

Camille wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:01 PM:To the Pamela Drive question. I know someone who told me his home burned to the ground on Pamela Drive. We are back home in Bonsall - the air is slowly clearing. No active fires in sight. We saw a lot of smoldering and smoke on the I-15 this morning.

Debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:01 PM:Is it true that Olive Hill is being opened up because they're Rainbow water customers and those of us who are customers of FPUD aren't being let in? If so, WHY weren't we told that two days ago? I think everybody would understand that explanation, so why is it just coming out? Or is it even true? Can you research the issue please?

BRANDON wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:02 PM:WAS THERE A SHOT OUT ON ESCO BLVD AT LIQUOR STORE WHY WAS IT SHUT DOWN

Valley Center Looters Rumor wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:02 PM:I just heard a rumor that the national guard is in VC because of looting all over the town. I sure as heck hope not. Can anyone confirm or deny these reports?

PAUMA PEOPLE!! wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:06 PM:My boyfriend and his brothers have been up to our home on 76/Nate Harrison Grade, they were there last night. The fire was on Palomar Mountain seemed to be moving along the montain side parallel to the 76. It has remaind on the mountain so it doesnt seem to be affecting any structures, only the mountain side. So 76/Adams is fine, so is the Country Club, and the Puama Reservation. Be advised that the fire is kinda low so pray that the winds dont pick up and blow the fire down the mountain. They have returned to our home again today as of 1pm today it is still on the mountain side. If i'm informed of anything else down there, i will repost another message with that info...

Robert wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:07 PM:Is it true that firefighting aircraft throughout the county are grounded while our president and governor are on the ground for "photo ops" and "politicking"????

Kathleen from VC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:08 PM:Bush in VC at 1:30

Redhawk Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:11 PM:Latest from Temecula website on Poomacha fire: 20% containment. Pechanga communication underway regarding evacuation plans (if needed) for Pechanga Hotel and Casino and reservation. Line containment efforts on top of Mt. Palomar, fire has not made it to Palomar Observatory. Last night an infrared flight was conducted to gather pertinent information.

Lynette wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:13 PM:Anybody know when I can come home to Fallbrook?

Alf wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:15 PM:Is Dudley's Bakery still OK? To many people, that's the meeting place before going to Julian. Regards, Alf.

Jen wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:15 PM:I just wanted to say thanks for all the helpful info here. I was able to find out that the fire was less than a mile from my folks' house and convince them to evacute to a hotel long before the mandatory evacuation order was made. It was much less stressful on two old people to have the time to get out with their pet,etc. To all you whining morons who are complaining about evacuating...shame on you. At least you had a chance to get out, unlike some in past fires.

One of the Jim's wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:21 PM:KUSI just said that some Fallbrook residents are being allowed to return. No details though, sorry. BTW, it was OK for everyone to leave at the same time so what's the problem with the return trip. Also, there are no water or power or gas leak problems around most of the area.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:21 PM:Water not an issue in Fallbrook Keith Lewinger, general manager of the Fallbrook Public Utility District, said today at 12:30 p.m. that a key purification system at Red Mountain Reservoir was destroyed by the fire on Tuesday, an estimated $1 million loss. The chlorination facility was quickly replaced with a temporary system that went online around 11:30 a.m. today, Lewinger said, adding that the water supply is now "doing fine." He said there are no water system problems that would hamper re-entry efforts. "We're asking, when residents come back in, that they limit outdoor water usage, both in Rainbow and in the Fallbrook Public Utility District," Lewinger said. "If everybody turns their sprinklers on as soon as they get back into town, it's going to overwhelm the water system."

InBaltimore wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:22 PM:Hey Mods--maybe you could set up a separate article headlined: "Understandably Frustrated People Venting About Stuff" on Message Board so everyone can vent there and the regular posts can focus on sharing information more than opinions...just a thought! I am trying to read through and answer questions about the area I know about for sure but it's getting hard to find them amongst all the venting.

VUSD REOPENS TUESDAY wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:23 PM:VUSD schools are planning on reopening Tuesday to students. Schools will be scrubbed clean Sat and Sun, teachers are to return Monday, and students on Tuesday 10/30.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:23 PM:For those asking about Ramona: Ramona remains closed. It is still unsafe to enter because of some utility problems, according to the Sheriff's Department.

Murrieta Mom wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:26 PM:Murrieta Schools closed on Friday also now - you can check the web site to verify!

No. County Reader wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:26 PM:Any updates on the Horno fire?! 40-50% contained as of yesterday. My daughter was allowed back onto base housing near Basilone Rd this morning and was still seeing smoke. I did give her the horno fire hotline# earlier today. Citizens heed the warning there are still fires burning and could change directions very quickly!!! NCT Thank You for your Assistance. My hats off to all the Firefighters,Police & Sheriffs!!!

Murrieta School wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:29 PM:Murrieta schools will remain close tomorrow Friday. School resumes Monday.

oside resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:31 PM:any news on the Horno fire? is it getting close to Oceanside?

linda wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:31 PM:im wondering if anybody know anything about zutano Ln off of Macadamia. Please

Lynette wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:32 PM:Anbody know when I can come home to North West Fallbrook?

murrieta girl wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:36 PM:just heard from a friend that returned to their home in the Hidden Meadows community.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:38 PM:Information on Food Stamps: If you need help, San Diego County residents directly affected by the 2007 Wildfires, such as those who have lost homes or income, may be eligible for Emergency Food Stamps, and will be able to apply for them at County Family Resource Centers and the four Local Assistance Centers set up to help wildfire victims. The United States Department of Food and Agriculture (USDA) has made Emergency Food Stamps available for fire victims in identified disaster areas on a one-time-only basis if they meet specific eligibility requirements. In addition, families who currently receive Food Stamps may be eligible for increased levels if they were affected by the fires.    Residents may apply for Emergency Food Stamps at the two Local Assistance Centers (LACs) currently open in Rancho San Diego and Rancho Bernardo. Fire victims will also be able to apply at the LACs in Fallbrook and Ramona when evacuation orders are lifted. Applications for Emergency Food Stamps will be accepted from Thursday, Oct. 25 through Saturday, Nov. 3. Complete instructions and eligibility guidelines for Emergency Food Stamps are available from the Public Assistance Information Line, (866) 262-9881.

steve wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:38 PM:been asking the same question for days, please reply! did the rice and poomacha fire get air support?? when and how much??? are they getting any now????

jzs wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:45 PM:Wondering what level of involvement the Oceanside FD had in the fires? I would assume a lot.

synia wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:47 PM:When are they going to open the valley center road leading to woodsvalley? I'm getting angry about this.

Robert wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:48 PM:Regarding "Bob's" question did the CDC clear Lake Elsinore for water pickup? Sure hope so, the huge Mars aircraft just dumped one load followed by a second load that from my vantage point landed on down town Lake Elsinore. Could this be an attempt to eradicate the bureaucrats. On a serious note, someone's comment on the possibility of a coordinated arson attack on southern California? I hope I don't hear on the 6 o'clock news that Osamba is claiming credit!

Laura wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:50 PM:All the love in the world to the firefighters, policemen, volunteers, etc that are doing all they can to help people. I made a mistake when I said the Wilcox fire-- the wilcox fire is OUT. The fire I mentioned is still burning (as far as I know) in the NORTH end of Camp Pendleton near LAS PULGAS RD. The Back Gate is closed down to everyone, they're only allowing emergency vehicles and authority vehicles through. This is as of about 2 hours ago, so if you guys have any more info, please let me know. Particularly about the Stuart Mesa area; I have some friends there with young children.

Living in VC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:51 PM:Are there any update for Valley Center evacuation lifting?

megan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:51 PM:what about murrieta school district??? Do we know anything yet?

Teri wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:54 PM:Hi, Marga. Thanks so much for all the great info. You guys at NCT have been a funnel of valuable info...keep up the awesome job! Quick question, do you know where one would go if their job was destroyed due to the fire or was out of business for days and don't pay for those days lost? My sister is in this situation and thought I'd throw that out there to see if anyone knows what to do. Thanks!

m wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:56 PM:vicky in n.m. if you read this, sullivan middle school is fine

Cammy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:56 PM:Is Del Dios open yet?

Concerned-1 wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:57 PM:NCT -- Please keep us up to date on the Poomacha fire and the status of the reservations. Thanks for a great job of stepping up with this info-blog. It is a lifeline in an otherwise dreary world.

concerned wrote on Oct 25, 2007 1:58 PM:does anybody know about the homes on the south end of rice canyon?

Corona at work wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:00 PM:Does anyone know the lates position and direction of the Santiago fire. Smoke and ash are falling in the Temescal Canyon Area.

Karina Fallbrook wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:04 PM:Just wanted to know where we can find out for certain EXACTLY WHEN WE ARE ALLOWED TO RETURN back to Fallbrook. I know they are letting people in on the Southern end, but I'm up at N. STAGECOACH/E. MISSION. What's the best site to look for that info? I realize we are all tired now and want to head back home, but like many have said--it is better to be safe than sorry. To those who stayed, I think you were all very brave, and I'm sure all of us appreciate the info. you've been sending our way through these posts. Thank you all.

Ashley wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:04 PM:I'm a student at Cal State San Marcos and I'm a little worried about the condition of my school at this time. After referring to the google fire map, I found CSUSM labeled in red to represent the perimeter of the witch fire! Does anyone know if CSUSM has been touched by the fire??

Jennifer wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:06 PM:Is there a list of homes that are confirmed to be burned and/or damaged in Fallbrook? If so, where can we find it?

Suey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:08 PM:I'm just wondering if anyone knows why we can't go back in to Fallbrook. I heard the water was a problem and now I read it's not. I have been calling my house and my answering machine picks up so I know I have power. I have heard from friends that did not evacuate that looting started yesterday. Anyone have any credible info on either of these subjects? ALSO I would love to thank the people in Temecula that have been so nice to us and especially our friends who took us in with dogs, bird, and a snake! I wish everyone had the good fortune we've had in such a difficult circumstance. Thanks for the info!

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:16 PM:Ramona working to fix water system Tom Brammell, the general manager of the Ramona Municipal Water District, said this afternoon that there are two emergency generators pumping water through the town's damaged water system. He said, however, that the two generators combined are producing less than 50 percent of the power needed to deliver water effectively. The town's water system was damaged during the fires, and a reservoir in Poway supplying water to the area was largely depleted during the fires. Brammell said that even if residents returned right away they would not be allowed to use water for anything while the system is being repaired and while the reservoir is re-filling. He said that returning residents can initially expect to be able to use water only for bathing and for flushing toilets once the district says that's OK to do. He said he expects the system to be operating normally sometime between Oct. 30 and Nov. 1. He said the county, not the district, determines when residents can return, and that the water situation is one of the factors in determining when to lift the evacuation. ---- Staff Writer Colleen Mensching

Mike wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:17 PM:Just when you think you've heard it all... I am fortunate to have a motorhome and evacuated my family of 6, my elderly parents, cats, and a dog. I am also lucky to be able to park in front of my cousins home in Murrieta. This morning I received a knock on my motorhome door by the Murrieta Police Dept stating that they have recieved a complaint by a Murrieta resident that my motorhome has been parked on the street for over 48 hours. The officer was VERY understanding and told me that he has to follow up on the complaint but said he would give me a warning. What kind of world do we live in that people can be so self-centered? Unbelievable!

west VC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:20 PM:I was evacuated from Fallbrook and have been in VC w/ some wonderful people. I am near a private airstrip that has had 6 to 8 helicopters ecquiped w/ buckets sitting idle. As fires are roaring they are just sitting. I imagine it is due to some political reason. possibly keeping the airspace free for his highnesses visit. I am among several people that would like to return to my house.

Bob wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:23 PM:I think everyone has had the thought pass thru their mind because of the concentration and timing of the fires, could they be terrorist related? Expanding that concern further, something that would magnify the tragedy is that all the fire policies that I have seen, do not cover for war or terrorist activities.

Douglas wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:25 PM:Thanks NCT for the venue to communicate. My family and I are extreemly grateful that our home was not damaged. I am frustrated that we can't be given any answer to when we will be allowed to return--"maybe after Bush leaves".

WestIvyKeith wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:26 PM:So if the water problem has been fixed, the fires are under control, electricity is on, and they can deliver gasoline to downtown Fallbrook, why is it that we can't go home? What specific reason is left? And who specifically makes this decision? Can you get him/her/them on the phone please?

KC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:26 PM:Any news on opening up Valley Center? (Now that the Prez is gone...)

palawrkr wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:30 PM:Why arent any of my posts about Pala Casino going through?

Bob wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:32 PM:I live in Chicago and just returned from a vacation in LA Saturday. This is my first time using this website and, judging by the messages I have read, I'm really impressed with the way you folks care for each other. Southern Californians seem to have a level of care and compassion for one another that is just remarkable. You're showing the rest of us how we're supposed to be! Thanks, good luck to all of you and God bless.

Larry wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:34 PM:I don't know if anyone has figured this out yet, but if you call your house phone and your answering machine picks up, chances are your house is intact. I just returned from Valley Center to Escondido. The National Guard and Police let me through when I explained that I needed to feed my 25 horses. I promised to leave when done. Most cars are being turned around at Lake Wohlford Road going into Valley Center.

mary wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:35 PM:Does anyone know anything about Valley Center??? When can we get back in? It doesn't seem like the fire is anywhere near the actual town of VC....why can't we get back in to homes there, especially when there's an evacuation site still located at the high school. Where's the coverage for all of the people that are being effected here? It seems like we're being forgotten.

Kay wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:39 PM:To Steve regarding air support on Rice and Poomacha fires. I live in west Hemet by Ryan Field. They are flying tankers in and out of there all day long. I stood in a field and watched tankers heading to and coming from those fires yesterday. There is no doubt in my mind that best efforts have been and continue to be made on every front. Thank you to all the people who risk their own lives to help others and all those who have worked to ease the distress of those who were displaced by this disaster.

MSS in Bonsall S. of 76 wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:40 PM:NCT reporters and especially Michael: thank you for this community service you have been providing! Without this service, we would not have known that there were reverse 911 calls in our area in the pre-dawn hours Wednesday. It later turned out those were incorrectly made and that 211 also had incorrect information about what parts of Bonsall were under evacuation order. But what if they had been correct? We would have been at risk.

Tom wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:47 PM:Any word on Pala Mesa Resort? My secretary is planning her wedding there and is freaking!

Debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:49 PM:WestIvyKeith: You forgot to add "and President Bush is gone". But I echo the sentiments - so OK, what is the reason now? Can't we get an explanation from the authorities? Exactly what is the problem?

toni wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:51 PM:any news on the rice fires coming into riverside county? and what direction the poomacha fire is heading?

to NC Times wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:52 PM:A teaser on ch. 51 said VC would get word really soon about going back. Do you know anything?

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:55 PM:EVACUATION ORDER PARTIALLY LIFTED FOR VALLEY CENTER Valley Center residents and businesses may reenter the following areas of Valley Center (according to Thomas Brothers maps): MP 1029- B-7, C-7, D-7, D-6, D-5, E-5, F-4, G-4, H-4, J-4 MP 1030: A-4, B-4, C-4, D-5, E-5, F-6, F-7, G-7, H-7 MP 1049: A-1, B-1, MP 1050: H-1, H-2, J-2, J-3, H-4, G-4, F-5, G-5, G-6, F-6 MP 1051: A-4, B-5, C-6, C-7. D-7 MP 1071: E-1, E-2, E-3, E-4, C-4, D-5, D-6, D-7 MP 1091: D-1, C-2 The following areas will remain closed: Paradise Mountain/Skyline Ranch; Palomar Mountain; the Highway 76 corridor from the Pala area to Highway 79; the Rincon, Pala, La Jolla, Pauma and San Pasqual Reservations; the Lake Wohlford area. Updated road closure and opening information Lake Wohlford Road will remain open. Cole Grade Road south of McNalley Road will be opened. Lilac Road south of McNalley Road will be opened. Highway 76 from just east of Highway 15 to highway 79 will remain closed.

stuck in east Oside wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:57 PM:We live north of 76, on the eastern border of the City of Oceanside (Via Puerta del Sol, off North River Road). We have only been under a voluntary evac notice, lifted days ago, but the County Sheriff stationed at the bottom of Via Puerta has orders to not let anyone through except Fallbrook residents south of Burma. We were told if we go out, we will not be allowed back in. I talked to both the Sheriff's Dept and the Oside Police and both agree this is a communication error, since this area never has been threatened. The only option they suggest was to try leaving through Olive Hill and _maybe_ I could get back in that way. This is no emergency at all, I just wanted to buy some food and water, and we can get by with what we have, but if anyone has been successful in getting into the Via Puerta area, I would appreciate any advice you could give me. Thanks.

Jennifer wrote on Oct 25, 2007 2:58 PM:Is there a list of homes that were burned/damaged in Fallbrook?

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:01 PM:From the Sheriff's Department for Fallbrook and Bonsall residents: At this time, only the following residential areas within the communities of Fallbrook and Bonsall have been deemed safe for residents to return: Bonsall Residents - 1. All Bonsall addresses south of Highway 76. 2. All Bonsall addresses west of South Mission Road, and north of Highway 76. 3. All Bonsall addresses west of South Mission Road, and north of North River Road. Fallbrook Residents – 1. All Fallbrook addresses south of Burma Road and west of South Mission Road. If you reside in the areas listed above, you will only be allowed access by contacting law enforcement personnel located at Olive Hill Road and Highway 76. You must show identification with proof of residency to be allowed access. Remember, this is for your safety. If you do not reside in the Fallbrook and Bonsall areas listed above, you will not be allowed access by law enforcement personnel. Please be patient, we are working diligently to ensure your safety. At this time, all other locations within the communities of Fallbrook, Bonsall, Rainbow and De Luz are closed to all who have been evacuated. While the original fire danger has past, in some areas there is still damage to infrastructure such as downed power lines, broken water mains and broken gas lines. These must be resolved prior to allowing access to residents to ensure their safety. The Sheriff’s Department, in cooperation with fire officials, Fallbrook Public Utility District, Rainbow Municipal Water District, San Diego Gas & Electric and others, is working diligently to resolve these issues. We will open up areas by neighborhood as they are deemed safe. Please know the Sheriff’s Department is anxious to return you to your homes.

mary wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:02 PM:Thank you Marga!!!! Do you know if I just tell the guards that I live in one of those areas, I can get in. I actually do live there, but do I just tell them my address and they'll let me in?

linda wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:04 PM:To Jennifer:Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce website has damaged/destroyed property in FB listed by address. http://www.fallbrookca.org/ChamberWebsite/IntroPageFrames.htm

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:09 PM:From the county: RAMONA IS STILL UNDER MANDATORY EVACUATION Unsafe for Repopulation Many Ramona residents have reentered Ramona even though the area is under a mandatory evacuation order. Ramona is currently unsafe for residents. Citizens are being advised the water system is completely down. There is no reliable estimate as to when the Ramona Water District will have the system online. No water creates a public safety risk by leaving firefighters unable to fight possible fires. No water also creates a public health risk for those on the water district’s system. There is a current “No Drink” order on the Ramona Municipal Water District. If you are currently in Ramona, do not use the Ramona Water District system for any reason. The district is in the process of restoring water. Any use of the system may result in further damage that could result in longer delays to reentry. The Ramona Water District has requested mutual aid to garner additional resources to help with system restoration. Simultaneously, they are working on an alternative water plan that would meet safety and health requirements to allow residents to return to their homes.

m wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:09 PM:vicky in n. m., wanted to let you know that sullivan middle school is o.k.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:11 PM:"Hi Ashley, Cal State San Marcos has not been touched by fire."

Bay Area wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:12 PM:My parents live near the Fallbrook GC and since I don't have access to a TGuide can you please let us know if the Fallbrook has lifted the evacuation lifted?

Horno fire moving SE toward E Oceanside wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:12 PM:The 12:30 PM firemap shows the Horno fire moving SE towards the San Luis Rey gate and east Oceanside. It appears to be only about 5-6 miles from the city. The Pendleton website has no new info since 7AM - can anyone confirm that this is correct? Are there aerial tankers working the fire on the base? http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/10252007_1230hrsA_Evac_FirePerem.pdf

M wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:13 PM:Debbie and WestivyKeith, I think the problem is turning the gas on safely to each neighborhood in Fallbrook and checking hotspots. My sister-in-law drove through and saw many hotspots flaring up along 76 and Mission. ANY NEWS please on Poomacha, Rice Canyon, Santiago fires entering Riverside?

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:17 PM:Hi Mary, According to the Sheriff's Department you must show identification.

toni wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:18 PM:you can call 211 for fire information

Bay Area wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:20 PM:Marga - I just saw your posting re: Fallbrook. Any idea as to when the residents can return home?

to NC Times wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:20 PM:wow this is great news for VC. Thanks so much, it isn't on TV yet.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:21 PM:Hi Bay Area, Please see post of 3:01 p.m. This has not changed as of this time.

Julian resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:21 PM:I am still trying to get the most recent developments on the Julian area, more specifically "Pinehills" Michael Donnelly, NCT, can you please make inquiries?. I cannot find any news regarding the fire perimeter on our area there is about 400 homes in our area. Please somebody help?

levi wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:21 PM:are we in any danger out here in menifee valley close to ridgemore and murrieta rd. please let us know- asap thanks

SUE wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:23 PM:IT'S SURE GETTING SMOKEY HERE IN TEMECULA IN THE PAST HOUR - WHAT'S GOING ON?

Kathy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:23 PM:To BayArea: Evacuation for most of Fallbrook still in effect. Apparently some power issues. The Fallbrook golf course areas is not open for anyone to return home (I live just above there -- we stayed).

Christina of Orange County wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:27 PM:SANTIAGO FIRE INFO: It's burning in the cayons heading toward Riverside County but that is a HUGE TRIP with out big winds I should not make it but you never say never when dealing with fire. Evacuation Information OCFA at 7:35 PM 10/24/07: (very few changes Wednesday) Mandatory evacuations are in place for the canyon areas off Santiago Canyon Road between Silverado Canyon Road and Live Oak Canyon Road, including the Santiago Estates area and Jackson Ranch Road. Areas along Live Oak Canyon Road through the Trabuco Canyon area, including O’Neill Regional Park, to Trabuco Creek Road are also included in this mandatory evacuation. Mandatory Evacuations for the canyon areas including: Baker Canyon, Blackstar Canyon, Hamilton Truck Trail, Harris Grade, Holy Jim Canyon, Ladd Canyon, Live Oak Canyon, Modjeska Canyon, Silverado Canyon, Trabuco Canyon and Williams Canyon. Silverado, Modjeska and Williams Canyon will evacuate northbound on Santiago Canyon Road. Trabuco Canyon area will evacuate toward the City of Rancho Santa Margarita. Evacuees can go to El Toro High School located at 25255 Toledo Way in the City of Lake Forest or El Modena High School located at 3920 Spring St. in the City of Orange.

Katie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:27 PM:Can I get an update on the Horno fire - all the information I can find is from 10:00 this morning and I can now hear helicopters (we are at Vandergrift and Douglas)

Jay of Murrieta wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:27 PM:Any news on redhawk area, how are the fire in fallbrook? Just want to know I work about an hour away.

Lori wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:28 PM:You can go onto 211sandiego.org This lists all the propertys lost in Fallbrook, and all other areas. Any new news on when we can return??

Alf wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:29 PM:"Mike" at 2:17PM, there's a joker in every crowd. Take heart. Regards, Alf.

Elaine in Arlington Va wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:30 PM:Thx NCT for supporting this blog. It's been very helpful for our family on the East coast to track what's happening in the Fallbrook area where my brother lives.

Paseo Del Sol wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:33 PM:Does anyone have updated info on the fires near Temecula? It seems like the smoke is getting worse.

Coughing in Temecula wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:37 PM:What's happening? All of a sudden the smoke is very thick down here near the office district off Jefferson and Winchester!!! Which fire is this and where is it at? Has is crossed Riverside Cty line?

Mike from SEH wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:38 PM:The North County Times has posted a link for people who wish to donate to the NC Times / CW5 Fire Relief Campaign, but I have been unable to find a more comprehensive list of other opportunities to contribute. There are many people around the county who have the time and the means (both financially and otherwise) to contribute to those in need. There are parents and children whose workplaces and schools may currently be closed, and for which this would be a tremendous opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those affected by this catastrophe. While some people may prefer to donate their money, there are many others who would prefer to volunteer or provide provisions instead. Additionally, some people would prefer to donate their time or resources to specific needs (e.g. – out of area firefighters, displaced pets/animals, those in temporary evacuation centers, clean up crews, etc.) rather than to a general fund. Is there a list that the NC Times could publish of different ways that people can contribute or volunteer, including addresses and/or contact information?

TAME in Murrieta wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:40 PM:It seems like in just the past hour or so the smoke and smell has become worse in the Murrieta area. Does anyone know if there is a new fire south/south west of Temecula?

Joey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:40 PM:In the last 30 minutes its seems winds have shifted in Murrieta and Temecula and the amount of smoke has doubled. Is the source for this new smoke from the OC fire?

JAY wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:40 PM:My friend has been out of town and wants to know if he can exit Camino del Norte as he lives by the RB high school?

Bay Area wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:42 PM:Marga thank you so very much. Appreciate the hard work you and the other NCT reporters are doing.

Laura wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:42 PM:Elaine, you had me worried for a sec, I thought you were my mom. Same name and state, different area of VA, haha. Katie: I'm waiting on an update for CP too. I live in Stuart Mesa off of Joyner; my husband saw the actual fire from the Horno fire. The faster I find out that it's either put out or at least 90% contained, the faster I can get home: respitory health reasons prompted evacs for me.

Sandy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:44 PM:I live in an area up towards Ortega Mountain from Machado & Grand. The smoke is getting worse - can barely see the Lake now. Does anyone know where the fire is and what direction is in danger?

Jenn wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:46 PM:I think the current smoke in IE is due to the santiago fire. Elsinore is very thick with smoke and all LEUSD schools have been cancelled for tomorrow

Bay Area wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:46 PM:Kathy - many thanks. Will relay your info to my parents.

Kathryn wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:47 PM:The smell of smoke is getting much stronger in northeast Murrieta, is there some new information available on the local fires?

Jakota wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:47 PM:To Tom: Pala Mesa Resort is standing and planning to resume normal operation on Halloween. The only structures burned were HR/Accounting and Engineering. I believe the Cliff wedding site is okay, but not for sure. My husband is there now making dinner for fire fighters. I will ask him to check it out if he can.

Marga wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:48 PM:The Thomas Guide Map shows that 1071 E1 E2 E3 E4 D5 D6 is Rincon Indian Res Could you please recheck what is open?

Jenn wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:49 PM:Santiago fire is expected to reach Riverside borders in 12-24 hours. That is the border in the middle of the Cleveland National Forest, not all the way over the mountains

MISSING VC wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:50 PM:HEARD NEWS AT 3:20 ON NEWS 10 -THAT FIRE MOVED INTO VC THIS AFTERNOON... SO I AM NOT HEARING A LIFTED EVACUATION...

Still coughing in Temecula wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:54 PM:Riverside Cty has little information for us in south IE. Anyone know where else to get info for OUR county. The county fire dept. web site offers little updated info. if any at all. It's still getting smokier here. Geez!

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:57 PM:I worked over in Fallbrook , up one of those hillsides. I spoke with someone from the Fallbrook Fire Districts and one reason people cannot return as soon as they want to..... Firetrucks can hardly maneuver during a wildfire down most of those hillside roads, to have to try to manage around private vehicles would be pretty much impossible. Firetrucks and personnel would be put in a horrible position. Where I worked at, we had a firestorm evacuation policy. One is that all personnel (and vehicles) would leave together as a caravan. If one vehicle in the caravan were to become disabled for ANY reason, the people in that vehicle would get into the remaining vehicles and the disabled vehicle would be pushed COMPLETELY off the road, even if it meant to push it off a cliff. No vehicle would be left to hinder rescue and fire vehicles from doing the important work that they had to do. These roads can be so narrow and winding, that these huge firetrucks are difficult to maneuver. So, it may be an inconvenience to you, but these firefighters need to make sure that there is NO way that fire can pop back up before letting private vehicles in there. And you have to admit, it is hard to differentiate between who lives on or works on those winding narrow roads and who doesn't...therefore stop ALL from returning. Give these guys the benefit of the doubt...they only want to keep YOU and your family safe AND come out of this event alive themselves....

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:59 PM:Regarding the Horno Fire: CalFire says it is burning in the northern half of the base. It's burned a lot of land but it's all toward the north side and is not moving toward Oceanside.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:00 PM:I also read somewhere (maybe from the city's site), but the Santiago fire IS expected to come to Temecula, not if, but when.....

Corona at work wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:00 PM:Thanks Christina and Jenn

Menifee resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:00 PM:Smoke is getting worse in Menifee, too. Can't tell what the source is. Does anyone know anything about this?

john wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:01 PM:So what is the truth.... Are they letting people up the VC grade or not?

Nicki wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:01 PM:My son & family live off Via Santa Rosa near Via Vaquero above Temecula. Any further news on possible evacuations on 10/25/07?

HORNO FIRE moving SE toward E Oceanside wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:07 PM:Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:59 PM: " Regarding the Horno Fire: CalFire says it is burning in the northern half of the base. It's burned a lot of land but it's all toward the north side and is not moving toward Oceanside. Marga- I know that is what CalFire and the City of Oceanside and the Base are all saying, but look at the firemap below: http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/10252007_1230hrsA_Evac_FirePerem.pdf Also, read what Katie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 3:27 PM: " Can I get an update on the Horno fire - all the information I can find is from 10:00 this morning and I can now hear helicopters (we are at Vandergrift and Douglas) These are worrisome - we are directly in the path of this SE direction in map square 1067. It appears that Horno has moved 10 or more miles to the SE, with no warning from Pendleton or the City of Oceanside.

No Smoking please! wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:10 PM:Riverside County needs to step it up...I am finding hardly any data on possible encroachment of the fire to the South or West of us here in Murrieta/Temecula. Good job NCTimes and San Diego County. The info. and platform here is awesome.

ELSINORE wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:11 PM:Horsethief Canyon Area - Riv County Supervisor's Office is saying that the Santiago fire is 2 miles from the Riverside County line. Their number is 951-940-6985. Once it crosses the county line, they say that they have fire and sheriff onsite and they are ready if it comes across. It is still quite a ways from any homes in the area. Voluntary evacuations for Trilogy homes as this is 55+ and the air quality is hazardous to seniors. Also, all Lake Elsinore public schools are closed tomorrow per Superintendent of Schools.

oside resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:11 PM:according to the 3:30 map, it looks like it is running towards Oceanside and fast. I don't know maybe is just me...

steve wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:12 PM:to kay, thank you for responding and i agree and appreciate the efforts of firefighters beyond words. i'm sitting in a house because people fought this fire. my question is whether these areas got support and if it's lack is due to red tape, or this area being left out? i asked the question of air support to the NC times and would appreciate an answer from them. kay saw them flying in and out of elsinore, that shows air support going somewhere. the question again, did the rice and poomacha fires get air support (fallbrook/VC/la jolla res etc, not riverside or the base) NC times please let me know. my new question is how many total homes (approximately, here not california) have been actually been destroyed? if it's 1000 less than the news has been estimating, it sure makes me happy. it should also be a crime to give us such misinformation! the NC times has been the best but more info is on this blog than in the news, is a crime. NC times please answer? i'm accusing no one and you (people) should not feel threatened by a question.

steven wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:14 PM:any updates on road closures in and around fallbrook??(old hw 395, 76, and any other roads surrounding Pala mesa village)

Phil Diehl, NCT staff wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:15 PM:The following is an updated list of homes in Escondido that have been damaged or destroyed as of 2:45 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25. Source is city of Escondido: Avenida Amorosa 3510, 3522, 3542 Calle Florecita 201, 232 Coach Road 12 Concerto Glen 841, 843 N. Escondido Blvd. 1350 Apt. Units 32 – 36 Fino Glen 741, 743, 751, 753, 761, 763 Inspiration Lane 1153 Queenston 1460 Sierra Linda Drive 3911, 1160, 1164, 1464, 1432, 1488, 1310, 1460, 1470, 1209 Stonepointe Drive 19 Tierra Vista Place 3919, 3925, 3932, 3940 Valle Grande Drive 1405, 1435 Victoria Glen 1434, 1444 Vista Bonita 4143, 4139, 1448, 4130 Vortex Place 4057 Vista Bonita Lane 4148, 4150 Lomas Serenas Drive 3414, 3418, 3425, 3426 Sierra Linda Drive 1350 Homes in the unincorporated area of the county Note: Owners of properties in the uncorporated area that have been damaged or destroyed but are not on this list should contact the Rancho Santa Fe Fire District at 858-756-5971 ext. 140. Mountain View Drive 2800, 2810, 2756, 2762 Canyon Crest Drive 2680, 2682, 2686 2696 Viento Valle 20605, 20845 Groton Place 2653 Rancho Del Rey 176 Sunset Hills Drive 2939, 2921 • 1111 Via Valle Vista • 1128 Via Valle Vista • 1133 Via Valle Vista • 1136 Via Valle Vista • 3540 Via Ventada • 3542 Via Ventada • 3530 Via Ventada • 3534 Via Ventada • 1217 Via de Encanto • 1218 Via de Encanto • 1221 Via de Encanto

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:15 PM:Evacuation Order Lifted for San Pasqual Communities Residents evacuated from the San Pasqual Reservation may reenter the following areas (according to Thomas Brothers map): MP 1091: B5, A5, A6, B6, C6, D6, A7, B7, C7, C3, A4, B4, C4, D4, E4, F4

meline wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:16 PM:Just looked at the sdcemerg burn perimeter map updated 2:30p.m. Shows another little red ball of fire still in Fallbrook...close to our place! Please comment? I thought it was just hot spots.

steven wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:17 PM:does anybody know if there is power and/or water in the pala mesa village?

CV wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:18 PM:Jenn, thanks for the clarification of where the Riverside County border is. I thought Lake Elsinore would have been where the border is.

Elizabeth wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:18 PM:I know many have said it....but the smoke is getting awful! I'm in French Valley and it's gotten terrible in the past hour. Any information?

What is the latest wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:19 PM:FALLBROOK UPDATES ANYONE?

Melissa in Elsinore wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:22 PM:The Santiago Fire is burning east towards the Riverside County line. *IF* it makes it all the way out here (doubtful) it will be between North Lake Elsinore and South Corona. It would have to burn the entire Santa Rosa Mountain Range and through the cities of Lake Elsinore, Wildomar, and Murrieta to reach Temecula. That is an unlikely proposition.

Sarah Wilkins, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:23 PM:I am looking into a story on looting, burglaries, scams and other crimes affecting residents during the fires this week. If you have been a victim of any of these crimes, please call me at 760-740-3524. Thank you.

kimberley wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:23 PM:We have been told on numerous oiccasions over the past several days that we could return to Fallbrook, but when we arrive, we CANNOT get in!!! We have since learned that it has been the MILITARY preventing it, while being fed a "story" about existing fires or "water" issues, when we are clear that it has not been either. I am delighted for those in San Diego that have legitimately been allowed to go home, but...Can we return to Fallbrook or not?!?! Do you know? Could you please give me a straight answer? Please respond ASAP. Thank you. Sincerely, Kimberley Umbour

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:23 PM:Camp Pendleton will be sending out an update on the Horno Fire in 30 to 45 minutes.

Jenny wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:24 PM:Any information on De Luz would be much appreciated. Many of us have gotten no information on this area for days. I live between 7.5 and 8 miles and would really like to know how close I am to any active areas. Thanks.

Dan wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:24 PM:some updates I just heard on the radio: the main reason all Fallbrook is not open yet is there is a problem with the water. 76 east to 15 is now open.

Menifee resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:24 PM:Marga Kellogg--Please inquire about the dramatic increase in smoke we are experiencing in the Murrieta and Menifee areas. We have no other source of information out here. Thank you.

Ramona Frustration wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:26 PM:Who is screwing up the Ramona re-entry. Is SDPD going to pay my food and hotel bills. Let us back for darn sake. This is crappy. First to evacuate and last to re-populate. This is the last time I listen to those people. I will stay with my home next time..(Hopefully there is no next time).

steve wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:27 PM:NC times, sorry about the typos on the previous version, if you can run this instead, great. i believe your coverage has been the best of anyone. to kay, thank you for your response and i agree and appreciate the efforts of firefighters beyond words. i'm sitting in a house because people fought this fire. my question is whether these areas got support and if it's lack is due to red tape, or this area being left out? i asked the question of air support to the NC times and would appreciate an answer from them. kay saw them flying in and out of elsinore, that shows air support going somewhere. the question again, did the rice and poomacha fires get air support (fallbrook/VC/la jolla res etc, not riverside or the base) NC times please let me know. my new question is how many total homes (approximately, here not california) have been actually been destroyed? if it's 1000 less than the news has been estimating, it sure makes me happy. it should also be a crime to give us such misinformation! the NC times has been the best but more info is on this blog than in the news, is a crime. NC times please answer? i'm accusing no one and you (people) should not feel threatened by a question.

Curtis wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:28 PM:This from the City of Temecula official website: "Temecula in no immediate threat from a fire standpoint, but we will continue to be a safe haven for citizens affected by these major fires. We are committed to provide the best support possible to these individuals and families in their time of need. There are NO Evacuations for the City of Temecula. Only the Police Department and the Fire Department have the authority to ask you to evacuate." Also, even if the Santiago Fire crosses the crest of the Santa Ana Mountains, it has a very long way to go before it reaches Temecula. "I heard somewhere" rumors don't help any of us.

wildomar wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:29 PM:we just got word that all lake elsinore schools are closed tomorrow, and the smoke is getting worse, is there a new fire in our area? It just keeps getting heavier and thicker, please post any word.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:31 PM:" EVACUATION ORDER PARTIALLY LIFTED FOR VALLEY CENTER Valley Center residents and businesses may reenter the following areas of Valley Center (according to Thomas Brothers maps): MP 1029- B-7, C-7, D-7, D-6, D-5, E-5, F-4, G-4, H-4, J-4 MP 1030: A-4, B-4, C-4, D-5, E-5, F-6, F-7, G-7, H-7 MP 1049: A-1, B-1, MP 1050: H-1, H-2, J-2, J-3, H-4, G-4, F-5, G-5, G-6, F-6 MP 1051: A-4, B-5, C-6, C-7. D-7 MP 1071: E-1, E-2, E-3, E-4, C-4, D-5, D-6, D-7 MP 1091: D-1, C-2 The following areas will remain closed: Paradise Mountain/Skyline Ranch; Palomar Mountain; the Highway 76 corridor from the Pala area to Highway 79; the Rincon, Pala, La Jolla, Pauma and San Pasqual Reservations; the Lake Wohlford area. Updated road closure and opening information: Lake Wohlford Road will remain open. Cole Grade Road south of McNalley Road will be opened. Lilac Road south of McNalley Road will be opened. Highway 76 from just east of Highway 15 to highway 79 will remain closed. "

meline wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:32 PM:On the updated 10/25 map on the sdcemer site I noticed a new red dot denoting fire in Fallbrook. Do you know what that means? The last maps had no active fires in Fallbrook.

Andy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:37 PM:The CHP has blocked Sandia Creek Drive south at the county line. No one who lives in the Sandia Creek area of De Luz with a 92028 zipcode can go home, although the area is not threatened and only about 30 homes are in this "panhandle" that protrudes north into Riverside county. This is arbitrary and illogical and reflects the lack of local geographic knowledge by decision-makers. Anyone north of the roadblock is free to go home, although the threat to there homes is no less. There are dirt roads that can get you around this roadblock, and many are taking advantage of this, so the roadblock is really only effective against folks with regular cars, not those who have 4X4s. Time to lift the blockade and let the citizens go home!

meena wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:38 PM:I just wanted to ask the same thing as wildomar schools are closed tomorow is there a reason??? Also would we have to evacuate?

Surfer wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:43 PM:To oside resident 4:11 PM: PLEASE stop the hysterical posts. O'side is not burning down....

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:48 PM:Regarding Camp Pendleton: Camp Pendleton officials have announced that the San Onofre Gate is now open for all traffic. Basilone Rd. is also open to traffic from the San Onofre Gate to the southern end of 52 Area at the School of Infantry. Military members have been permitted to return to Las Flores 41 Area, and the Las Pulgas Gate has been reopened to outgoing traffic. Las Pulgas Rd. is open westbound to Stuart Mesa Road, and remains closed from Stuart Mesa Rd to Camp Las Pulgas 43 Area. Fallbrook residents aboard Camp Pendleton who live between Morrow Hills and up to the checkpoint at Burma Rd. can return to their homes. These residents are instructed to exit Camp Pendleton's San Luis Rey Gate, also known as the Back Gate, and travel eastbound on Highway 76 to reach their homes. Fallbrook residents wanting to know whether they can return to their homes should call the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce at (760) 725-5845. For updates concerning Camp Pendleton, its military members, DOD civilians and their families, please visit the base Web site at www.pendleton.usmc.mil, or call the main information hotline at (866) 430-2764.

Warren wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:49 PM:I was just in the Fallbrook area. The police officers I talked to don't know when the rest of Fallbrook will open, maybe tomorrow but probably Saturday. We need to let them do their work. Their has been air support to the Fallbrook area both yesterday and today as I saw helicopters on both days. There is also the telltale sign of fire retardant on the freeway. Everyone needs to quit trying to find someone to hate and blame and just support. I'm fortunate to still have a home and am very emotional towards those that don't.

devo wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:52 PM:were is all the smoke coming from i live in murrieta

Kimberley wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:52 PM:Last time I checked, Fallbrook was a CIVILIAN town, NOT a MILITARY base. Since when did Cramp Pendleton make CIVILIAN descisions? 25 feet of chain link fence does not a military base, make... I thought we were residents of North San Diego County. Is it not the local ELECTED Officials that make descisions?

Warren wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:53 PM:Sarah, two friends of mine surrounded three people who had a truck load of stolen things, on Tuesday. It was at Reche and Green Canyon. They called the CHP and they came and arrested them.

Black's wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:53 PM:Marga/NCT, I am at the airstrip in VC where they are staging efforts for firefighting. Helicopters from several parts of the country are here to take part. A neighbor is taking high quality digital video, I'm wondering whether your paper may be interested in them. I am concerned by the earlier entry about possibly a new spot in Fallbrook that's burning. I am interested in specific info in that area.

Scott wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:53 PM:The Valley Center evacuation lifting is pretty confusing. Several of the Thomas Guide page numbers represent areas that show as having been part of the actual burn area, while other page numbers to the west of them (which were not touched by fire) are not included. What is up with that? Example....page 1071 is cleared, but was in the fire area. Pages 1069 and 1070 are not mentioned.

NCT Reporter Shayna Chabner wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:56 PM:If anyone has information on the two individuals who died in a home in the unincorporated part of Poway during the Witch Fire, can you please contact reporter Shayna Chabner at (760) 740-5416.

wildomar wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:57 PM:any update on where all this choking smoke is coming from now in the wildomar area? its getting worse by the minute! is it from the santiago fire? please post!

JAV wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:01 PM:Please tell us why soooo smokey in Murrieta/Temecula???? It is worse now then it has been all week.

Kimberly wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:01 PM:Is there a fire near Lake Elsinore? We can see a lot of smoke and some ash falling

Morgan hill wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:01 PM:This is from the City of Temecula Website: 4:34pm 10/25 * Poomacha Fire Update (Mt Palomar) o 8-9 miles from Riverside County line o Fire still has not crested the top of Mt. Palomar o Smoke and ash will continue to permeate the Temecula Valley from this fire from the south o No evacuations necessary to Temecula residents * Santiago Fire Update (South Corona) o Very active fire burning east between Corona and Lake Elsinore. o This fire is still estimated to be 3 miles from Riverside County line. o Smoke and ash will continue to permeate the Temecula Valley from this fire from the north o Temecula staff has extended an offer to assist the City of Lake Elsinore if the conditions worsen for their jurisdiction.

Menifee resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:01 PM:Just called Riverside County re: increased smoke in Murrieta and Menifee. There are no new fire incidents in the county. They relate the smoke to the Orange County fire and Riverside is prepared to deal with the fire if it crosses the county line. If so, the person I spoke with indicated there would be more information available on the website and through the media.

Curtis wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:05 PM:Folks, the wind has reversed. The smoke isn't blowing out to sea anymore. The increase in smoke is a natural result of the wind reversal. It doesn't mean the fire is about to descend on you.

Temecula Redhawk Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:06 PM:I wish I had more information for my area. It is so awful, with all the smoke, but I can't find anything out about the reasons for it. SOMETHING needs to be done, with regard to our television access. All we get are LA based tv stations and we have nothing reported about poor little Temecula. I am literally 5 miles from the San Diego border, but have to rely on Riverside or LA county reporting. It's really not right.

Inishturk wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:07 PM:I just heard on am 600 that Fallbrook residents could return to their home? Can anyone verify if that is true?

Len T wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:09 PM:Kimberley take a breath and settle down. "Cramp" Pendleton is not making decisions for civilians. The relationship between Camp Pendleton and the civilian community has been great and doesn't warrant your immature response.

robert wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:12 PM:Smoke is from Santiago Fire...Winds have shifted and is blowing smoke/ash towards Riv County into Menifee, Murrieta, French Valley areas...

Hey Surfer! wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:13 PM:There was nothing "hysterical" in "oside resident's" post expressing legitimate concern about the Horno fire appearing to have moved quite a bit SE in a few hours. If the map is correct, the fire has traversed more than 1/2 of the base today. Check the map they are siting and perhaps you will understand.

Deborah wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:14 PM:I can appreciate that the City of Temecula has this statement, however that statement has been up saying the same thing the past 24 hours. All I think most of us seem to be asking here in Temecula/Redhawk is why has the city since early this afternoon become so smokey (it is clearly coming from the Palomar Mountain area). It has poured into this valley in the last 2-3 hours and the burning smell is nothing like it was this morning. Just wondering if the wind has changed direction and this is why we are being inundated with this severe condition, or its suggestive that the fire has advanced & reached the top of Palomar Mountain? Do any of the NC Reporters know this?

Evacuee wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:16 PM:Please don't blame the military for not being able to return home! They are NOT the ones making the decisions; merely the ones enforcing them. EVERY single OFFICIAL site has been uniform in saying that Fallbrook residents can not go back (with the exception of those in the very SW corner of unicorporated Fallbrook). The military is assisting local officials by providing manpower. If the vast majority of the National Guard were not deployed overseas, you would be seeing them manning the stations. Instead you're seeing troops that are currently home.

Jenny wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:19 PM:Inishturk - The Fallbrook Chamber website is still claiming the evacuation is in effect.

debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:22 PM:No one can come into Fallbrook right now, the national guard is everywhere. The marines checked everyhouse with a yellow ribbon if you are not home. They are watching for looters. Albertsons and Major Market are open, but all that is around town is fire fighters. They are checking gas lines and power lines at every grid until complete.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:23 PM:Horno Fire: Camp Pendleton says the Horno Fire is headed in two directions, north and south. It is being fought on base. There is no further information at this time. I will post as it becomes available. The Oceanside Fire Department reports it has no fire crews on Camp Pendleton and is not on alert with regard to the Horno fire. They say that currently they have received no reports of a threat posed to Oceanside.

Debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:24 PM:No entry to Fallbrook until Friday. Every road has national guard, police and they are absolutely not letting anyone in.

Ray wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:27 PM:Hey Andy ... I'm one of those Sandia Creek "Panhandlers" ... and drove into the area Yesterday @ 6pm thru Clinton Keith ... now that is blocked down in the groves ... so there is no word. I just got back from CK and the smoke is REALLY WORSE ... at 4;30 PM I could not see my house ... any word from that SD/RS county line area?

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:31 PM:Evacuation ordered north of Palomar Mountain Mandatory evacuation of Lake Henshaw, Mesa Grande, and La Jolla Indian Reservation The EAS message advises that “due to a fire from south and west, residents in the area west of Hellhole Canyon, north of Palomar Mountain to Warner Springs, south of Bear Valley and Rancho Santa Ysabel and, east of Montezuma Valley are under a mandatory evacuation notice. Please take the following route Route 79 to S-2 to S-22 to Borrego High School.”

debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:36 PM:Are there any roads open into Valley Center?

Jo wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:36 PM:RICE FIRE: Please, I have relatives and friends that live between Santa Margarita off of Stagecoach Hillcrest Ln. Does anyone have info on this area. The Google fire map shows in red but I'm unclear on what that really means. I'm 170 miles away and not getting what I need on t.v. Thank You

WestIvyKeith wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:37 PM:The reason for the frustration is that there is zero information coming out. I'm asking a simply question. Why can't I go home to the downtown Fallbrook area? A specific reason, not a generality. The water issue was taken care of. Other people are still there. They brought in a gas truck last night to refuel the station. So why can't I go home? Who specifically makes this decision? I've called everyone from the sheriffs department to Issa. The chamber of commerce doesn't answer it's phone for hours at a time. Only the FPUD would say anything and they said that the water issue was fixed. Why is this so hard? Why do I have to go to a blog to get any information? It's frustrating and it shouldn't be this difficult.

meena wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:38 PM:lake elsinore info its 3 hrs old but i guess it will change... eventually http://www.lake-elsinore.org/emergency.asp

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:41 PM:2007 Wildfire Fatalities Update Fourteen fire-related deaths of San Diego County residents have occurred during the 2007 Wildfires. This includes seven deaths directly related to the fires, three that occurred during evacuation activities and four that happened after the decedents were evacuated. The most recent fatalities included in these statistics are: Two sets of unidentified charred remains were reported earlier today. This update includes the positive identification of those two individuals, husband and wife who were found in the rubble of a completely destroyed house on Highland Valley Road in unincorporated Poway during the evening hours of October 24. Victoria Katherine Fox, a 55-year-old female, and John Christopher Bain, a 58-year-old male, were identified via dental records as burn victims. Four sets of unidentified charred remains were reported found today in the Potrero area. Medical Examiner’s Office Investigators are currently en route; no further information known at this time.

vc gal wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:43 PM:VC SCHOOLS CLOSED UNTIL WEDNESDAY.

Roe wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:43 PM:debbie We took Valley Parkway all the way into Valley Center. There was one checkpoint after you turned into Woods Valley to check id.

debbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:46 PM:Fallbrook-gas lines and power lines. I drove around and they are fixing down power lines on reche, and there are hot spots still burning at the north mission and reche area. i guess they don't want looky-loos around that area. High school area roads lead to reche and i think they just don't want people there. fire has jumped back and forth on reche and sdge has one lane open.

Joey in Murr wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:49 PM:Where is the latest map of the Santiago fire? I know this is the NC Times and not Riverside or OC but the OC times map is not working. Thanks.

jo wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:50 PM:i believe the fire map you are looking at that shows red means the fire has burned in those areas but not necessairly burnt all the homes in the area, alot of homes were saved!!

Mary wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:54 PM:Is it true that there is a fire between Lake Elsinore and Corona?

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:55 PM:Regarding the couple who died in their home... He was a real estate broker, she was a teacher at Rincon Middle School in Escondido

MorganHill wrote on Oct 25, 2007 5:57 PM:Deborah I completely agree, I think the fire is way closer than what they are saying, I was just posting what I read. Morgan hill is really close to the mountain and I am really nervous. I think everyone is in a little of a panic, and rightfully so, including myself

Concerned-1 wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:00 PM:Marga, please respond to requests for information on the smoke in Temecula. Those of us on the southern end need info. At least respond even if you can't help. There have been at least a dozen posts here. Thanks, we do appreciate what you are doing.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:01 PM:To Black's: We'd be happy to look at your video and possibly use it. Please call our news hotline at 760 740 5425. Thanks! Black's wrote on Oct 25, 2007 4:53 PM: " Marga/NCT, I am at the airstrip in VC where they are staging efforts for firefighting. Helicopters from several parts of the country are here to take part. A neighbor is taking high quality digital video, I'm wondering whether your paper may be interested in them. I am concerned by the earlier entry about possibly a new spot in Fallbrook that's burning. I am interested in specific info in that area. "

Observer wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:01 PM:OK people, some of you really need to get a grip. STOP complaining about your inconvenience, about how you "should have ignored the evacuation orders," how the CHP are "rude, like when they give you tickets." If these officials didn't take a stand and evacuate, you'd be complaining that they did nothing to protect you. People are dying here, lives are being destroyed, and you're moaning about being out of your home for a few days. Be thankful you're not the ones out there on no sleep, battling these fires (and other ungrateful residents like yourselves). GET OVER IT.

Becky wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:05 PM:Mary...from the City of Temecula.org website: Santiago Fire Update (South Corona) Very active fire burning east between Corona and Lake Elsinore. This fire is still estimated to be 3 miles from Riverside County line. Smoke and ash will continue to permeate the Temecula Valley from this fire from the north Temecula staff has extended an offer to assist the City of Lake Elsinore if the conditions worsen for their jurisdiction.

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:07 PM:"To Concerned and others: Temecula is not threatened at this point. The increasing smoke is the result of changing atmospheric conditions which are blowing more smoke into the area. The Rice Canyon and Poomacha fires are still bringing huge amounts of smoke to Southwest County, but the blazes themselves are still south of the Riverside County line, fire officials said. While the Rice Canyon fire ---- which has ripped through the Fallbrook area ---- is still listed as only 30 percent surrounded, fire officials in San Diego County said they expect to have it 100 percent surrounded sometime Sunday. The fire had destroyed about 9,000 acres by Thursday morning, officials said. There still is no anticipated day that firefighters might have the Poomacha fire near Palomar Mountain surrounded. That fire had charred an estimated 35,000 acres as of Thursday morning." (from IP: 192.104.196.124 Source - Edit)

GARBAGE IN = GARBAGE OUT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:09 PM:The fire activity and perimeter maps available at http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/newsreleases/10252007_1730hrs_Evac_FirePerem.pdf have not changed at all between 12:30 and 5 :30 PM today. They are just updating the green and purple evac and return zones. Yet we hear reports that the Palomar and Horno fires and others are actually on the move. So anyone, including myself, that has been carefully studying those maps to learn how fast and in what direction the fires have been moving, probably is wasting their time. The active fire (red dots) and perimeter (red/yellow lines) haven't changed all day.

Philip wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:09 PM:Hi. Just to let everyone know that is trying to get back into Fallbrook. It is buttoned up so tight its unbelievable. Unless you live on Olive Road or Burma, you ain't getting in. I live at Via Del Robles - they said no. No negotiation. Guess we'll wait for tomorrow and see what happens, though the officers I talked to said, the order could be lifted tonight, tomorrow or Saturday or Sunday. I'm a bit perplexed. Patience grasshoppers.

Roe wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:12 PM:I reported earlier that Valley Center Rd was open, and it was, but channel 39 news just reported it was closed.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:13 PM:The CHP Incident page states a fire is in Lake Elsinore area....

Concerned-1 wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:16 PM:Thanks Marga. It does seem to us that the smoke is coming from the south thus our concern. How about Pala? My friend there has been out of his house since Tuesday. Once again, an absolute wonderous job by NCT staff.

stanggomez wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:16 PM:Somebody pease inform lake elsinore and wildomar residents

temeculamom wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:17 PM:Does anyone know anything about a fire at Rancho California Road and Anza??

Alex wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:18 PM:VC is now wide open for residents. Paradise Mountain is open if you show the cops your ID. Just came down from there. You have to go up either Old Castle/Lilac roads or VC Rd. Lake Wohlford is being used for moving firetrucks, according to the CHP at intersection of Lk. Wohlford and Paradise Mtn/Woods Valley Rds around 5 pm.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:24 PM:It is approximately 29 miles from Santiago Fire to Murrieta, thru vegetated terrain. So, is it possible? And Lk Elsinore and Menifee are even closer.... Again, is it possible?

DJ wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:28 PM:All I completely understand the frustration when someone of authority says you can't do something, BUT stop whining. This blog has the best information going, but listening to 100 people whining about not being able to go home is getting old! Yes you want to see your homes, yes you are frustrated; stop and think the police and fire departments are doing what's good for the entire population and if that means an inconvenience to a few so be it. I’m sure you whiners would be the same ones wringing your hands and screaming about how bad it was when a family walks back into their "safe" home and flips a light on an the place explodes. What would you all say then? it’s the fire departments fault for letting you in Too early. I'm lucky my home was not in direct threat and thanks to my stars for it, but you need to understand it’s not all about you Today. Sorry if I offended anyone, but this is just too much listening to everyone takes their pop shots as the police and fire departments who have risked their own life to save yours. NC Times keep up the good work great source of information THANK YOU.

Valle Vista wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:29 PM:Is it true that there is a fire in Idyllwild? If so, do you have any information on it?

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:31 PM:CHP Incident page for Orange Cty states that fire closing Trabuco Canyon, approx 20 miles from Lk Elsinore as of 10:30 thos am..... So is that far in respect to a wildfire? I don't know...

oside resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:32 PM:does anybody have any news on the south Horno fire? it's still looks big and no info about it.... and surfer keep your comments to yourself, NTC is doing us a great favor by having this site but with comments like yours they might change their mind.. thank you.

response wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:44 PM:There was a worker burning his trash near Rancho Calif and Anza in the orange orchard north of Rancho Calif, but he has been told to put it out.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:46 PM:CHPIncident Page says there is a reported fire at Rancho California and Anza Way in Temecula...

JKCDN wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:47 PM:Does anyone know if the Del Dios Highway is open?

Concerned-1 wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:51 PM:Air in Temecula is much better. Looks like Marga was right on. Air is good enough to let the pets out, thank goodness. Moon is red, I'm going to bed. Best of luck to all.

MelissaInOceanside wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:58 PM:oside resident - where are you seeing these updated Horno fire facts or maps? ...Because everything I see is giving the same ol' information about Horno: 40-50% contained.

JKCDN wrote on Oct 25, 2007 6:58 PM:DOes anyoe know if Del Dios is open?

Bonnie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:02 PM:I hope the NCT will save these posts. The next time there is a fire or emergency in Fallbrook and 90% of the residents will not leave (based on the 50 people I've spoken with- 46 of whom said they would NEVER evacuate again); I want the County and Cal Fire to know that they are responsible for any and all tragedies. The powers that be have to know that Fallbrook residents aren't stupid, we know the water "problem" is no longer true. If all of the Military and Sheriff were moved from the perimeter of town to the streets around the "danger" areas- most of the residents could go home. Keeping everyone out is just making folks mad and anyone who is an elected official, and has anything to do with this can kiss thier job good-bye.

missmag wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:02 PM:Living in AZ wantinfo on Julian

Winterwarm Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:02 PM:ARE YOU KIDDING ME? The only time this site was of any value was while Michael Donnelly was on the job in the wee hours. Right now, I feel like I'm in a chat room 20 years ago. There is NO exchange of RELIABLE information. NCTimes is feeding us the same info at the same time that the SDCountyEmergency releases their "News Breaks." Verbatim. Here we are, everybody's patting each other on the back and thanking God and crews on the ground. I am not ungrateful for this forum and I am not asking to move back in tomorrow. I'm just asking for RELIABLE INFORMATION and UPDATES as to the status of this disaster. Out of 525 entries since 1:29AM....how many are actually answered? "North County Times reporters answer your questions," I think NOT. Reporting? Yeah, I don't think so either.

Jen wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:03 PM:PHONE OUTAGES??? Anyone know if there are phone outages in Escondido?

DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:04 PM:About the Poomacha fire: Do they think it will reach 79 below Vail Lake. If so should the residents north or vail lake (Glen Oaks Hills) or east (Aguanga) need to evacuate. this area is all brush and hilly. I'm concerned for my sister and her family in that area. Any suggestions?

Andy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:05 PM:Ray: The southbound Sandia Creek blockade continues. With a Thomas Guide and a Jeep you can probably figure out a way to get around it from the Riverside county side, but it involves some fairly challenging dirt "roads." Not recommended for the faint at heart. Strictly your call.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:07 PM:CHP Incident page reporting there is a grass fire on White Mountain Rd in Temecula

meena wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:14 PM:inform residents in lake elsinore what?????

DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:15 PM:Lainey: I just checked the CHP page and that fire you were talkin' about isn't there. Must of been a false alarm or it would still be reported. My sister lives up that way so Im keepin close watch.

Bee wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:16 PM:Although the Santiago fire may reach be over 25 miles to get to wildomar, and even further for murrieta or Temecula.

Curtis wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:17 PM:The wind has reversed. It brings the smoke in rather than blowing it out to sea. At the same time, the onshore flow is still weak, so the smoke tends to accumulate right here. Now, Trabuco Canyon is a rugged mountain range away from Lake Elsinore, and Lake Elsinore is 25 miles from Temecula. Sure, the Santiago Fire could conceivably get across those mountains, and I've seen fires do amazing things in a short amount of time (usually when the wind is from the east, which isn't the case now). But I've seen and read nothing to indicate that that's an imminent possibility. The City of Temecula hasn't changed their online statement -- assuming for the moment that that's the case -- because there's nothing new to report. As for the smoke: I'm in Redhawk, and it's been pretty bad today, but nothing like it was in Rainbow yesterday. There were some officers manning a roadblock at Rice Canyon Rd. and Rainbow Heights Rd. I don't know how they were able to tolerate the choking smoke. I guess they get paid to tough it out, which is what they were doing.

ps wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:20 PM:sooo sorry the some of the evacuies in temecula, my son wanted to volunteer at the high school and told he was not needed because he didnt speak spanish how sad for these people that are in need of help!!!

MelissaInOceanside wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:22 PM:Good LORD, Bonnie... lady, you'll probably be home 24 hours from now. Chill out. In the meantime, wherever you are can't be all THAT bad if you have the time and ability to post ranting and raving messages on this informational blog. Have a glass of wine and say a prayer for those who have lost their homes.. I will say a prayer for yours, while we're at it.

Gaile wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:23 PM:I've heard stories about some of the more recently established shelters in North County and in Temecula having limited resources, and have heard ENDLESS coverage about the excess of supplies and volunteers down at Qulcomm. Now that most of the residents are able to return home (except FALLBROOK) who can we contact to suggest that some of those resources should be sent NORTH to help Fallbrook's displaced?

oside resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:24 PM:to: MelissalnOceanside, here is the link. http://www.nctimes.com/ and http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/ I don't really buy this, it looks exactly the same since noon.

JM wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:28 PM:In case you aren't reading the other blog, here is the post on the Fallbrook Chamber's web site: RETURN APPROVED FOR LIMITED AREAS OF FALLBROOK San Diego County has announced the reopening of the non-fire impacted portion of Fallbrook effective 7 P.M. this evening (Oct. 25) Areas approved for reentry are: Residents within the following boundaries will be allowed to return to their homes. Only residents with identification will be allowed in this area: West of Gird Road between Hwy 76 & Reche Road West on Reche Road from Gird to Live Oak Park North on Live Oak Park from Reche Road to Alvarado West of Live Oak Park on Alvarado to Stage Coach North on Stage Coach to East Mission Road West on East Mission to the western boundary of Fallbrook. Still closed areas are: No access will be allowed East or North of these boundaries. Areas uneffected by fire including: Updates to this listing will be posted after 9 a.m. tomorrow. A disaster relief center is open during the day at the Fallbrook Community Center There will be a public meeting scheduled Sunday at the High School Football field. Check here for time the is yet to be determined. "

temeculamom wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:30 PM:The CHP page has a filed reports section, it is still there as transferred to CDF. On a different note, Trilogy up in Glen Ivy...anyone have any info if evacuations are gonna happen tonight?

Curtis wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:32 PM:Dirty Cowboy asked: " About the Poomacha fire: Do they think it will reach 79 below Vail Lake." Answer: No.

Winterwarm Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:34 PM:10-25-07 7:28 p.m. Evacuation orders lifted for Ramona, partially lifted for Fallbrook. Fallbrook residents who live within the following boundaries will be allowed to return to their homes as of 7:00 p.m. today: West of Gird Road between Highway 76 and Reche Road West of Reche Road from Gird to Live Oak Park. West of Reche Road North on Live Oak Park from Reche Road to Alavarado West of Live Oak Park on Alvarado to Stage Coach North on Stage Coach to East Mission Road West on East Mission to the western boundary of Fallbrook No access will be allowed East or West of these boundaries. Residents may check in on Gird Road at Highway 76 and Highway 76 at S. Mission. Only residents with identification will be allowed into the area. Although Fallbrook residents were evacuated via Camp Pendleton, they cannot return via Camp Pendleton.

Alex wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:35 PM:Regarding the 5:17 p.m. an Emergency Alert System (EAS) post at on http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/: The areas under new mandatory evac don't make any sense. "West of Hellhole Canyon" and "north of Palomar Mountain to Warner Springs" are many miles apart. It makes even less sense for VC residents of Paradise Mountain (which is Southwest of Hell Hole) to evacuate to Borrego Springs, per the EAS warning. I called in to 211 to see if this report is accurate. It seems innaccurate at face value considering the spread out regions, and the west wind.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:37 PM:CHeck the CHP INcident Page, then click on FILED INCIDENTS...its still there

in Idyllwild wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:37 PM:To Valle Vista: I live fairly close to the main fire station in Idyllwild and usually hear the trucks going out on calls. I'm not aware of any fire up here. It is very, very smoky and ashy this afternoon and we are definitely smelling smoke and fire. Please comment again if you hear anything else.

MelissaInOceanside wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:38 PM:Bonnie - I lied. It was a lot less than 24 hours: 10-25-07 7:28 p.m. Evacuation orders lifted for Ramona, partially lifted for Fallbrook. Fallbrook residents who live within the following boundaries will be allowed to return to their homes as of 7:00 p.m. today: * West of Gird Road between Highway 76 and Reche Road * West of Reche Road from Gird to Live Oak Park. * West of Reche Road * North on Live Oak Park from Reche Road to Alavarado * West of Live Oak Park on Alvarado to Stage Coach * North on Stage Coach to East Mission Road * West on East Mission to the western boundary of Fallbrook No access will be allowed East or West of these boundaries. Residents may check in on Gird Road at Highway 76 and Highway 76 at S. Mission. Only residents with identification will be allowed into the area. Although Fallbrook residents were evacuated via Camp Pendleton, they cannot return via Camp Pendleton.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:41 PM:Bonny, if they let you back now, and you get trapped or hurt, you'd be the first to yell about that too... chill out, you're not going to get somebody fired for doing their job.....

Eric wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:42 PM:More of Fallbrook is OPEN....

Morgan Hill wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:42 PM:Not a false alarm there is a fire on White Mountain Road, I just saw four fire trucks drive down that way, I think I can see from my house will look and report back.

Jakota wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:43 PM:Questions about wedding area at Pala Mesa Resort: The Cliff is unharmed, the hill behind it is charred. Pala Mesa still on course to reopen Wednesday.

Phil Diehl, NCT staff wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:43 PM:To Jen - Our police reporter says there are no reports of telephone outages in Escondido.

Eric wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:43 PM:RETURN APPROVED FOR LIMITED AREAS OF FALLBROOK San Diego County has announced the reopening of the non-fire impacted portion of Fallbrook effective 7 P.M. this evening (Oct. 25) Areas approved for reentry are: Residents within the following boundaries will be allowed to return to their homes. Only residents with identification will be allowed in this area: West of Gird Road between Hwy 76 & Reche Road West on Reche Road from Gird to Live Oak Park North on Live Oak Park from Reche Road to Alvarado West of Live Oak Park on Alvarado to Stage Coach North on Stage Coach to East Mission Road West on East Mission to the western boundary of Fallbrook. Still closed areas are: No access will be allowed East or North of these boundaries. Areas uneffected by fire including: Updates to this listing will be posted after 9 a.m. tomorrow. A disaster relief center is open during the day at the Fallbrook Community Center There will be a public meeting scheduled Sunday at the High School Football field. Check here for time the is yet to be determined.

winterwarm Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:43 PM:NCTimes Staff: http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/ "Breaking News....Fallbrook"

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:44 PM:Incident: 0949 Type: Structure or Grass Fire Location: 43930 WHITE MOUNTAIN RD Zoom Map: 982 5B info as of: 10/25/2007 7:43:28 PM ADDITIONAL DETAILS 7:02PM XFER CDF-R

Just in about Fallbrook wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:44 PM:From the County Emergency website: Fallbrook evacuation order partially lifted Fallbrook residents who live within the following boundaries will be allowed to return to their homes as of 7:00 p.m. today: West of Gird Road between Highway 76 and Reche Road West of Reche Road from Gird to Live Oak Park. West of Reche Road North on Live Oak Park from Reche Road to Alavarado West of Live Oak Park on Alvarado to Stage Coach North on Stage Coach to East Mission Road West on East Mission to the western boundary of Fallbrook No access will be allowed East or West of these boundaries.?Residents may check in on Gird Road at Highway 76 and Highway 76 at S. Mission. Only residents with identification will be allowed into the area.  Although Fallbrook residents were evacuated via Camp Pendleton, they cannot return via Camp Pendleton.

Surfer wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:45 PM:Hey Bonnie: If you live west of Gird it's time to go home! Don't bring that glass of wine with you, and please, everyone, drive carefully! We all want you to actually make it home in one piece! Stay safe!

oside resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:46 PM:to: MelissalnOceanside here are the links. http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/ and http://www.nctimes.com/ since noon the map looks the same and I am not buying that is 40 to 50 %.

lorraine wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:46 PM:more of fallbrook is open- nct should update the list

J.D. wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:47 PM:I cannot believe how many selfish little winers are out there!!! I live in SW Temecula and work full time as a UH-60 Blackhawk pilot out of Los Alamitos Army Airfield. One of my jobs is to work wild fires with the CDF. There is a reason you were evacuated and a reason you are not be let back in. The various agencies involved have to make absolutely certain that it is safe for your return and that you will not be a hindrence to ongoing operations. We on the fire understand your frustations but at the same time understand that a good percentage are those that complained about not enough being done to notify/evacuate people during the Cedar/Paradise fires. In short just deal with it and you be allowed to return when it is safe to do so.

Cbr wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:47 PM:Regarding the Horno fire- you can find an updated map at www.sdcountyemergency.com

Mango wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:47 PM:I have many family members and friends that live in Ramona. Is there a list of known street addresses that have been burned? I see the Councilman for Rancho Bernardo has provided this on his website, but haven't been able to find any such info for Ramona. I realize it may not be complete, but I'd like to know what is known at this time.

Patience wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:48 PM:My name isn't patience but I think everyone getting extremely upset about not being able to return home should have some of it. I know you're sick of hearing that and you just want to be in your own bed and near all of your familiar things. But you have to stop and think of the others that won't have the luxury again. I don't know your situations (i.e. financial, food, etc.) but it is WAY better than what those poor people that have been left with that lost their homes. There is so much involved into letting you back in. They have to survey the safety (i.e. gas breaks, electric lines down, water and electric outages, etc.), not to mention just seeing whether the structure was safe to enter and to tag it. Plus the insurance & FEMA folks that need to enter the streets to gather data of destroyed and damaged homes, it would be that much more difficult for them if they have to face thousands of people throwing questions at them. People...please just have some patience. Take a moment and think how it feels when your 3+ year old keeps whining "mom", "mom", "mom" and your so tired all you want to do is collapse. That is how our firefighters, police, officials and emergency-related folks feel. You will be given the okay soon to re-enter your homes. Just have faith that these people have your well being in mind.

Where wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:48 PM:On Monday, Duncan Hunter said a C-130 would be arriving in San Diego at 2:30pm and others were to follow. What happened to those airplanes?

In and out of Fallbrook wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:48 PM:I've been going in and out of Fallbrook for three days - there are two ways no problems and I'm a Temecula resident - so if you are really want to get in (with a truck) it is possible

oside resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:49 PM:Yeah, I thought you said it looked 'larger' or 'closer' or something... maybe I misread. Looks like it's fairly contained. Yay! :)

Jakota wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:50 PM:Fallbrook evacuation order partially lifted Fallbrook residents who live within the following boundaries will be allowed to return to their homes as of 7:00 p.m. today: • West of Gird Road between Highway 76 and Reche Road • West of Reche Road from Gird to Live Oak Park. • West of Reche Road • North on Live Oak Park from Reche Road to Alavarado • West of Live Oak Park on Alvarado to Stage Coach • North on Stage Coach to East Mission Road • West on East Mission to the western boundary of Fallbrook No access will be allowed East or West of these boundaries. Residents may check in on Gird Road at Highway 76 and Highway 76 at S. Mission. Only residents with identification will be allowed into the area. Although Fallbrook residents were evacuated via Camp Pendleton, they cannot return via Camp Pendleton.

Where to donate clothes? wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:51 PM:Is there anywhere I can donate a large amount of clean but used clothing, that normally I would give to other charities, that may help victims? I don't have money to give so that they can get new clothing but maybe these can help.

Mango wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:51 PM:Gaile, I was one of many carloads of donations that were turned away from Qualcomm as they had more donations than needed. I would have gladly driven up to your area to donate, but the officials at Qualcomm were not able to advise where the areas in need were. I was led to believe Qualcomm was coordinating to drop off extra donations to other areas. While the need is still valid to get donations to you (and I'll try to help) this matter needs to be investigated and incorporated into the city wide emergency plan for future emergencies.

Abbie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:51 PM:Lainie, where on the CHP incident page are you seeing that there are fires in Temecula and Lake Elsinore. Mine is not showing that.

Winterwarm Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:51 PM:Dear Phil: How long does it take to check out the validity of Fallbrook evacuation lift? It's noted on all the other websites but your own. Perhaps you could change your motto to "Be the LAST to know!"

Welcome Home wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:53 PM:Second try to post this. Here is the post on the Fallbrook Chamber's web site: RETURN APPROVED FOR LIMITED AREAS OF FALLBROOK San Diego County has announced the reopening of the non-fire impacted portion of Fallbrook effective 7 P.M. this evening (Oct. 25) Areas approved for reentry are: Residents within the following boundaries will be allowed to return to their homes. Only residents with identification will be allowed in this area: West of Gird Road between Hwy 76 & Reche Road West on Reche Road from Gird to Live Oak Park North on Live Oak Park from Reche Road to Alvarado West of Live Oak Park on Alvarado to Stage Coach North on Stage Coach to East Mission Road West on East Mission to the western boundary of Fallbrook. Still closed areas are: No access will be allowed East or North of these boundaries. Areas uneffected by fire including: Updates to this listing will be posted after 9 a.m. tomorrow. A disaster relief center is open during the day at the Fallbrook Community Center There will be a public meeting scheduled Sunday at the High School Football field. Check here for time the is yet to be determined.

temeculat wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:55 PM:Lainey, what is the web address of the CHP incident report page?

Mom in Elsinore wrote on Oct 25, 2007 7:59 PM:Hi I hve been keeping tabs on the fires through nc blogs for the last couple of days, these reporters have done an amazing job keeping people informed, bravo guys, your paper should be proud. However today there seems to be a lot bad vibes. Can we please go back to being informative. I would like to keep track of the fires, our air quality in Elsinore has been very bad today(I know in other places too)in comparrison to the rest of the week and it is hard sifting through all the useless posts to find good info, so I can feel like I have the latest info to take care of my family. Not meaning to offend anyone just asking people to repect the purpose of the blogs as I did when other cities needed to be sifting through them. Thank you

mel wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:00 PM:are they allowing residents in de luz to return?

The Youngs wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:00 PM:Darryn Bennett: Thank you for answering. Is there any news about Via del Cielo yet?

Kathy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:10 PM:Wow, sad to see how the tides have turned. First off, if and when this happens again and you refuse to evacuate, fine, but don't expect anyone to come and rescue you when you or your neighbor's house is in flames and now you want out. Second, this is a web info page...how do you expect them to release the info before the sd county emergency releases it, you want them to make it up???

Jen wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:11 PM: Anyone hear anything on the fire evacuating Vista residents?

Valle Vista wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:14 PM:Thanks in Idyllwild! My roommate called me from her work and said that her boss heard on the news that there was a fire in Idyllwild. I didnt see anything on the news or online about it. There is nearly no reporting for this area which is very frustrating. If I hear something I will definitely let you know.

The Youngs wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:15 PM: This is from the cbs8 website I am sorry to say this is their published list of destroyed properties: Fallbrook Crest Heights 4024 Daisy Lane 2593 2595 2641 Larkspur 3725 Live Oak Park 3133 3305 Los Alisos Dr 2954 2960 Nuestra Ln 2888 2911 Old Highway 395 239 2001 Poppy Ln 3770 Ranger Rd 167 367 669 1010 Reche Rd 3775 Ridge Rd 934 952 964 Stewart Canyon 466 Sterling View Dr 4276 4283 Tecolote Dr 15 16 17 18 1427 1475 3841 Vern Dr 2305 Via Bara 3599 Via Chaparral 1514 1520 1590 1620 Via Rosa 3565 3593 Wilt 1562 1612 Yucca Terrace 3373 Yucca Way 208 326 520 3562 3588 3595

Reardon wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:23 PM:To In Idyllwild: We evacuated to the north, and unable to find suitable hotel/motels, went to Idyllwild and got a cabin. Terrific community, plenty of cabins and Victorian Inns available -- thank you. Wish we had been there before, but we will be back.

Waltz right in wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:27 PM:I've been going in and out of Fallbrook for the past three days - if you really know Fallbrook and want to get home and have a truck - no problems

Sandy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:28 PM:To Jen: What is the source of the Vista evacuation? Where is the fire at?

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:28 PM:http://cad.chp.ca.gov/ The incidents for Temecula, etc are filed in San Diego Cty... Some are on the regular page, some are under RESOURCES- filed incidents

murrieta girl wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:30 PM:partial return for fallbrook. that's great news. you can read who can go back so far at http://www.sdcountyemergency.com/ thanks to all the brave people that are fighting to keep us all safe.

oceanside76 wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:30 PM:Not sure if this is redundant, haven't read each line of this blog tonight but here is updated information regarding Fallbrook on the Camp Pendleton website: CORRECTION: FALLBROOK RESIDENTS WHO LIVE BETWEEN MORROW HILLS AND UP TO THE CHECKPOINT AT BURMA ROAD CAN RETURN TO THEIR HOMES. However, they are no longer permitted to exit the Fallbrook Gate. Residents should exit the San Luis Rey Gate to Highway 76 East to reach their homes. Residents wanting to know whether thay can return to their homes should call the Fallbrook Chamber of Commerce at 725-5845.

Tired guy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:30 PM:I'm back home after day four in Fallbrook. Today was pretty calm, the wind was light, and the smoke was clearing. There were only a few hotspots being doused north of town in the canyon. It's over, the damage is done, which is pretty minor percentage wise. I had the opportunity to do drive around today, step back, and consider the enormity of this fire. When I thought about it, I realized how HUGE this fire was. It burned about a third of Fallbrook. It amazed me when I considered how many houses were actually saved by the firefighters and law enforcement personnel. I could not even count how many houses were untouched by flame despite the black earth surrounding them. This was a well planned miracle that thousands of houses were not destroyed. I'm not looking for applause or fan-fair, but my partner and I alone must have saved a dozen houses with only shovels and garden hoses during the first two days of this fire. Many, many other people can claim the same. In addition, we were assisted by many heroic citizens who came to our aid. Everyone came together to do what needed to be done, and the results were terrific. Also, the looting was almost non-existent. This was because we did not have hundreds of people driving around and potential looters were easier to contact. Anyone of the road or at houses was very likely to be contacted by law enforcement and the would be thieves figured that out very quickly. I guarantee the looting would have been devastating if the town had not been locked down. As it stands now, ZERO confirmed cases of looting. All you naysayers can put that in your pipe and smoke it. I also had the opportunity today to speak with a nice gentleman who's house had burned to the ground. The only thing he had left was an insurance policy, and a grove of fruit behind his house. He was spending his day tirelessly picking his fruit before it went bad and loading it into his truck. He was a man of resolve. He did not complain, he did not whine. He was tending to his responsibilities. He seemed unfazed by the situation, but I could see the pain in his eyes, and hear the sorrow in his voice. Despite losing his retirement home, and all his possessions, he kept focus on what was important, and refused to let this incident destroy him. I kept thinking of this fine man as I read some of the comments complaining about minor inconveniences in the posts above. I feel bad for the people who lost their homes, but I pity the selfish people who are only thinking of themselves.

Requesting the Lessons Learned wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:30 PM:It will be a while before this disaster is studied for better prevention and execution. Please publish the comprehensive report and keep it posted for weeks so that we ALL learn from mistakes made. Thanks to all who helped in this crisis.

To Abbie: wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:33 PM:The Highway/CHP website is http://cad.chp.ca.gov/default.asp

Go Away wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:38 PM:To Winterwarm Resident and friends: If you are so unhappy with the information that you are getting from this site then go somewhere else. I have found more info from the people on this site than anywhere else. Sure, it might be exagerated in areas and people are putting their opinions in a litle too often, but come on. Everyone is doing their best. There are SO many displaced people that don't have a home to go back too, take a breath. So many men and women have spent countless, sleepless hours to get you back into your home as quickly as they can, give 'em a break. Leave this site for people that want to make a positive difference. And thank you to the Times for providing this forum - certainly your writers don't have to put up with all these rants and raves. Thank you for your patience.

:o) wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:41 PM:Tired Guy, you sound like a real gem! I sure wish there were more people like you in this world. God Bless You!

Gnomie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:42 PM:Thank you, Tired Guy, for putting all this in perspective, and THANK YOU for all your efforts.

DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:45 PM:To Lainey: Where do I find the CHP Incidents Filed Reports. I do not see anything for White Mt Rd or any others. hwere is White Mt. in conjunction to Glen Oaks Hills. Im keeping up all the info I can for my sister in that are. I myself m in NV.

DirtyCowboy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:52 PM:Lainey: thanx. for clearing that up on the incidents page. That helped. Still don't know where White Mt is

temeculat wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:53 PM:thanks Lainey

Lake Elsinore wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:54 PM:Is there any word on a fire near Lake Elsinore?

michael wrote on Oct 25, 2007 8:58 PM:To the county liners, I'm one of the 30 or so home owners in the area. I went to the check point and was stopped by the CHP. I could see that my newly costructed home was still there as well as all the homes facing north of me. It would be nice to go back since the fire was mostly "squashed" accordingly to the CHP I talked to. I was told that we may be able to go back Friday. The lack of info is been hard for most of us.

black's wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:04 PM:I want to thank everyone, even the people w/ opions and rants and especially for the NCT for making this site available. I attempted 211 call and website and others too numerous to mention. i received the best info from here and a radio station when I could get it. I needed info on valley Center and Fallbrook who were all but forgotten by the TV. Again, thank you to all of you. I get to sleep in my bed tomorrow. And I have plenty of clothes and bedding and kitchen stuff , used, but useable for those that need. Please let me know if there will be a drop off center for this.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:05 PM:Thank you Tired Guy... You go get some good food and sleep.... YOu ARE appreciated by us.. Just some of us don't know how to properly say it. I know that I appreciate all that you have done, and my home wasn't ever in jeopardy. I appreciate your being WILLING to put your life on the line for me, my family and the things I hold precious to me. THANK YOU.

Temecula Redhawk Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:06 PM:I wish I had more information for my area. It is so awful, with all the smoke, but I can't find anything out about the reasons for it. SOMETHING needs to be done, with regard to our television access. All we get are LA based tv stations and we have nothing reported about poor little Temecula. I am literally 5 miles from the San Diego border, but have to rely on Riverside or LA county reporting. It's really not right.

Cbr wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:08 PM:Tired Guy- you made a difference! Glad to hear you are safe.

Winterwarm Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:12 PM:To: GO AWAY, your "Everyone is doing their best...." and following rhetoric is missing the point. Perhaps the answer to "making a positive difference" in future situations like this, would be to elect/appoint a designated liason between the "many displaced people" (HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS) and those crews on the ground who "have spent countless, sleepless hours" working to get them back into their homes. Someone who would coordinate and distribute pertinent information so that evacuees are not kept in the dark; RELIABLE AND TIMELY information accumulated from the various teams that are actually protecting our properties. In effect, someone who would keep in check random hearsay and people like "Dave," who suggested that Al Qaeda is a possible arson suspect in these fires. And, thank YOU for your patience and this forum.

Judy in SM wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:15 PM:Much thanks to the NC Times for this forum. I have a trailer at Lake Wohlford and neighbors who stayed there. The official updates have provided very little specific info about that area. The information shared here has helped fill in some pieces of the puzzle.

To Bonnie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:28 PM:I too hope the NC Times keeps these blogs so that GOD forbid another fire happens in your area the first responders know whom to send the bill for the damage that was caused while they are rescuing you and the other '46' instead of trying to prevent the fire from spreading.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:36 PM:DirtYCowboy--were you able to find where I was getting the info from??

Yvonne wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:38 PM:As i drove to work in Vista today from Temecula i was amazed at the number of homes still standing so close to burn areas. The firefighters are doing a great job!!!! some websites i have found very helpful in addition to this one are channel 8 news san diego and cityoftemecula.org. They update frequently.

Raider Bill wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:43 PM:I've just made my second drive of the day to Fallbrook. the latter of the two had me really exited with anticipation of being home once again after 4 days. After going thru town and finally getting to my turn-off (Live Oak road to Los Aliso North) I was met with another police enforced rode block. Does anyone have any idea when this second phase of re-entry into our Fallbrook neighborhoods will take place. Any assistance/information will be greatly appreciated. My hat is off to the NCT staff for making this most informative resourse available to us. You are definitely a blessing to us all as well as the men & women who have risk their lives countless times this week in order to insure we have a home to come back to. There is a pain in my heart for my fellow neighbors and friends that lost their home, and you can best believe that same pain is felt by those firefighters who fault hours upon hours to do what they could in order to save those homes as well. So from here on out instead of finding fault or blame with what has happened in our friendly village use that same energy to thank a Veteran, a Police Officer, a Firefighter, a Teacher, a Paramedic......Get the point!

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:44 PM:I found White Mountain Road at Aguanga, Riverside Cty

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:47 PM:For DIRTYCOWBOY---- Head east on Glenoaks Rd toward Calle Bellagio 0.5 mi 2. Turn right at De Portola Rd 6.1 mi 8 mins 3. Turn left at Anza Rd 0.5 mi 1 min 4. Turn left at CA-79 10.5 mi 13 mins 5. Turn left at Rainbow Rd 0.2 mi 1 min 6. Turn right at White Mountain Rd 0.3

Rice Canyon wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:47 PM:I will refuse to be called a hero - however I would like the residents of Fallbrook to know I too (from Temecula) called in from work and took days off to fight fires left behind and threating your homes. I made it through Rainbow Canyon till the block off left to Rice Canyon right on Pala Mesa Resort (turns into a fire road) three colors white grey and black - I started to cry because I was too far in to turn back and did not know where I was at. (Scared to death at all the devestation in the canyon made) it under the freeway and up Reche road - tons of hot spots not a single fire truck in sight - pulled out my hoses, landscape hose connections, shovels, picks and started to dig in. I hope yours is one of the houses we saved while the trees and brush were burning and we brought our own hoses 'cause yours were metlted

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:52 PM:DIRTYCOWBOY--- I think it is about 13 miles by road, but 6 miles "as the crow flies" From Glen Oaks to White Mountain

bit of heaven wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:53 PM:First, thank you "tired guy", for making others see "strength" in such a loss. The man you describe in your story sounds like my Father in law. He has been very positive through this whole ordeal as well. Unbeliveably positive. Never complaining. And my Aunt has been a pillar of strength as well. It makes one wonder how they would handle such a catastrophe. My Aunt(11 plus year resident) and my Father in law are residence of Valley Oaks in Fallbrook. My Aunt's home has burned to the ground and my father in laws home is still standing. We have not been able to see inside of Valley Oaks yet, but anticipate to be allowed in within the next 2 days (hopefully). However we have been given first hand account of what is standing and what is not. Valley Oaks is like a little bit of heaven (as is all of Fallbrook). I talk so much about Valley Oaks that you'd think I LIVED THERE. I pray that the community of Valley Oaks can rebuild and come together once again. There are some wonderful people that reside in this community. My heart is broken for all that lost homes from the fire. Also, if anyone is able to get into Valley Oaks park, would someone please leave food for any cats that may be still waiting for their owners to come home. And Thank you NC Times for letting us all connnect in such trying times....

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:55 PM:Ok...I've tried to help others get info...now I need help. I am ashamed to admit it, but I cannot figure out by what they have printed as being the perameters of those than can go back to Fallbrook (I am the world's WORST on directions)... I have friends off of WIllow Glen. Is that included, or is it one of those places that were damaged? I haven't been able to figure it out....Thanks in advance.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 9:58 PM:Many calls placed to CHP regarding fire at Lake Elsinore...

wildomar area wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:06 PM:so can anyone confirm/deny if the santiago fire is causing most of this ash- smoke in our area or do we have something else closer? update please! cant seem to get anything for our area at all. it is really frustrating. no school though for the lake elsinore area now, its about time.

TO DIRTY COWBOY... wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:11 PM:Incident: 0949 Type: Structure or Grass Fire Location: 43930 WHITE MOUNTAIN RD Zoom Map: 982 5B info as of: 10/25/2007 10:07:49 PM ADDITIONAL DETAILS 7:02PM XFER CDF-R THIS INFO IS ON http://cad.chp.ca.gov/default.asp...WHITE MOUNTAIN ROAD IS NEAR RANCHO CALIFORNIA ROAD WEST OF THE 15 FWY. HOPE THAT HELPS A LITTLE.

michael wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:11 PM:To Laret, I thank you and the military for our freedom and protection. As far as the people you spoke of, that is an example of the liberal agenda and the way they think it's cool to hate our country and those who protect their right to speek and live freely.

concerned resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:15 PM:how close are the fires in lake elsinore- does menifee need to evacuate any time soon. concerned thanks....

Samantha wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:16 PM:eI have heard that homes on Willow Glen have been saved. Some not, but many are. there is no electricity and we may not have any for 2 weeks. Can anyone confirm this. This is in the northeast part of Fallbrook/cross of Mission Great job nct!

What's going on?? wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:19 PM:The website hasn't updated in over an hour and no new info on the Poomacha & Rice fires. I just checked out the KPBS website and found the maps had been updated about an hour ago. If it's correct, then it looks like the Rice fire is coming very close to the 15 now into Temecula (about 2 miles) and Poomacha about 6 miles. Can't anyone update us please? Thank you.

Temecula Redhawk Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:23 PM:I wish I had more information for my area. It is so awful, with all the smoke, but I can't find anything out about the reasons for it. SOMETHING needs to be done, with regard to our television access. All we get are LA based tv stations and we have nothing reported about poor little Temecula. I am literally 5 miles from the San Diego border, but have to rely on Riverside or LA county reporting. It's really not right.

DeLuzGuy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:24 PM:Any news on Rice Canyon Fire? What is the chance of it cross over to De Luz tonight or tomorrow? I have property up there and I am down here anxiously waiting to hear the latest news.

To Winterwarm Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:28 PM:I have a friend in Fallbrook near Winterwarm and he didnt leave. He said it is bright clear blue sky there. He said there is no danger there. Are you home at Winterwarm now?

Xasperated wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:32 PM:Not wanting to participate in the whining competition, I have waited until now to post, but I believe this question is timely. Now that most of Fallbrook is going home, would it be too much to ask to let us know if our homes are still standing in the areas that can't go home yet? Specifically, I'm interested in Banyan Dr., but I think I can speak for all homeowners unable to see for themselves. I'm sure they would like to know.

Adam Kaye, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:44 PM:To JKCDN: Del Dios remains closed to residents. Power lines and guard rails along the highway are damaged. Roadblocks at Via Rancho Parkway and Cielo.

Adam Kaye, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 10:59 PM:Hi missmag: As I drove down the mountain this morning, great numbers of fire trucks were driving up. There's no electricity and all roads into town are closed. This should be prime time for tourism, with the apple harvest and fall colors, and some merchants say they might not be able to recover from their losses.

Tired guy wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:07 PM:To Raider Bill: I have not been able to sleep well so I decided to take one more look at the news before trying to get back into bed. I will try to answer your question. You live in an area that has damaged houses close by. The reason that area is still off limits is because a thorough and final search for bodies needs to be conducted in the ruins. The preliminary searches have been completed and no dead people have been found so far. It is a major priority, though, to make sure that no victim is left unaccounted for. I wish you the best of luck as you endure this process. It should not take much longer.

c wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:12 PM:Somehow my girlfriend and I were allowed into Fallbrook. She lived on Red Mountain Heights Rd at the very top. Her house along with her neighbors house burned to the ground. 3026, and 3026 A. The entire area up there at least most of it was still standing. Avocado groves hit hard. I thought it was going to be a lot worse.thank goodness a lot of homes were saved.

DE LUZ RESIDENT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:18 PM:I have heard that a fire is in the De Luz Canyon on De Luz road. Does anyone know where exactly? We are located at the end of De Luz Road @ SD and Riverside County border. Thanks- It is going to be a long night and we would love some correct information.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:33 PM:CHP Incident Page is reporting that there is a fire on DeLuz Road at the San DIego Cty Line...

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:39 PM:Hi, everyone. I'm looking into that De Luz Road fire. CHP hasn't updated information on it since it was reported at 9 p.m.

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:42 PM:De Luz Resident, et all -- The most current county fire map shows a small pocket of active fire line a few miles south of the Riverside-San Diego County line from that fire. I will try to get more information now.

Riverside County Resident wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:49 PM:For your consideration: While the Red Cross is awesome when it comes to medical aid and blood donations - I would submit to you all that they are really lacking in many areas. 4 Years ago my husband & I were devasted by the fires. Only emotionally as we were not physically impacted in any way. We gathered several boxes of clothes, pillows and the like to donate and took them to a shelter in San Bernadino. We were turned away by the Red Cross who wouldn't accept anything that wasn't brand new, with tags! I couldn't imagine that they would do that but they did. We ended up in front of the shelter where the Salvation Army was happy to accept our donations and we watched as people couldn't get through the boxes fast enough. Yesterday, we encountered the same scenario. This time the Red Cross asked us to take our donations to a "store" in town that would go through the items and then donate them. And ... when we asked, they told us the Salvation Army was "full" and not accepting any more donations. Instead of doing as they asked, we went to the evacuee parking lot and found other volunteers who told us they were desperate for clothes. I helped to carry the boxes into the shelter where the Salvation Army was very happy to take them. And I even heard one evacuee asking at a desk if there weren't any clothes available. The need was obviously great. I'm not certain what the rationale is behind the Red Cross not taking anything that's not "new" but I know that if I would be happy to get anything when I had lost everything! After my experiences 4 years ago and yesterday together with the press from Katrina, I will happily donate blood to the Red Cross but never, ever will I donate funds. Our donation (and the foodstuff we took to the firefighters) were no more than a glass of water thrown into an empty swimming pool but nonetheless, it was something. Why is it that the Red Cross turns away donations that are so badly needed? And in this case even tries to discourage donations of clothing through the Salvation Army? I'll never know the full answer. We are not now nor were we impacted 4 years ago by the fires. But if the time ever comes that we are in a desperate situation the Salvation Army will be our first stop!

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:49 PM:Here's the latest on the Santiago Fire from the Orange County Fire Authority: Originated at Santiago Canyon and Silverado Canyon (Thomas Brothers page 832 A2). Fire continues to move to the east/southeast between Williams Canyon and Hamilton Truck Road.

Lainey wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:50 PM:Can I ask again?? I plead ignorance in figuring out the parameters for Fallbrook regarding who can go home.... How about Willow Glen/Willow Glen area?? I cannot figure out from their "directions" whether Willow Glen area is included in that or not. I admit it, I am "directionally disadvantaged"....

pinky wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:52 PM:any news on the san pasqual reservation!!!! please anyone with info on all canal rds.

Connie wrote on Oct 25, 2007 11:54 PM:Xasperated- no Banyan street on list of homes destroyed in fire

Concerned Oside Resident wrote on Oct 26, 2007 12:01 AM:First let me say thank you to NCT for all your hard work, for you are certainly doing our communities a great service! My question pertains to the Horno fire. I just checked the lasted fire map from the sdcountyemergency.com website(1930 hours on 10-25) and saw a significant difference in the active burn area compared to the map from 2330 hours on 10-24. In specific, the southernmost head of the fire is getting much closer to Oceanside. I am aware that back burns are being used and that the fire is 40-50% contained, but the growth in active burns close to the city still concerns me. Have you heard any reports of concern regarding this "double-headed monster" and how close it is to Oceanside or the housing on base? Thank you for checking your sources for me and my fellow concerned Oside residents.

Jenny wrote on Oct 26, 2007 12:07 AM:Michael, Certainly appreciate your diligence. Any info on the De Luz situation would be a breath of fresh air...I haven't heard anything useful since Monday. I will continue checking back. Please post anything you can find. ~jenny

Michael Donnelly, NCT wrote on Oct 26, 2007 12:07 AM:We're moving over to the 10/26 Ask a North County Times reporter questions file, so I'll see you there.

Fallbrook Friends in Sweden wrote on Oct 26, 2007 12:07 AM:Have been following the NCT blogs throughout the fires...no other sources of updated information. Like the rest of you, have concerns for those who may have lost their homes. Am concerned about a property on Zutano off of Macadamia. Is in the red on google fire map, but it seems that is no guarantee of property loss. Anyone know anything about possible loss of homes on Zutano????

Len T wrote on Oct 26, 2007 12:15 AM:Kimberley take a breath and settle down. "Cramp" Pendleton is not making decisions for civilians. The relationship between Camp Pendleton and the civilian community has been great and doesn't warrant your immature response.

USMC Mom wrote on Oct 26, 2007 12:48 AM:I am sure that I am not the only Mother of a Marine on Camp Pendleton that is concerened about her son. The fire looks like it is growing and heading for the areas that my son works and where he lives. I am about 600 miles away and get no Camp Pendleton News up here. Are these fires getting under control and what is the quality of the air at Camp Pendleton that these Marines are living, working and training in. More information about this Horno Fire is needed.

Mary wrote on Oct 26, 2007 1:57 AM:I am notoriously bad at following directions (my husband used to write "turn toward the cigarette lighter" instead of "turn right"), so, is it just me, or do these directions not make sense? What does "west of Reche Road" mean? Isn't Reche an east/west road? Is there a graphic map of the area where the Fallbrook evacuation has been lifted?

Temecula Redhawk Resident wrote on Oct 26, 2007 5:04 AM:I wish I had more information for my area. It is so awful, with all the smoke, but I can't find anything out about the reasons for it. SOMETHING needs to be done, with regard to our television access. All we get are LA based tv stations and we have nothing reported about poor little Temecula. I am literally 5 miles from the San Diego border, but have to rely on Riverside or LA county reporting. It's really not right.

Another USMC mom wrote on Oct 26, 2007 6:20 AM:So it's being reported that residents who live west of Gird Rd. are now allowed to return home through both south Mission/76 and the Olive Hill/76 entry points. Would this include the apartments on West Fallbrook up against Pendleton's fence?

Michelle wrote on Oct 26, 2007 8:28 AM:When is E. Mission rd going to open right of stagecoach??

Glory wrote on Oct 26, 2007 8:47 AM:I would like to know why little or no coverage is being done about the hundreds of La Jolla Indian Tribe who are currently (the majority) are at the Pechanga Casino. Many of them lost their homes, and are upset that the La Jolla people were virtually forgotten in the media. They are like anybody else affected by the fire, they are middle to low income people, who have lost everything. So as a newspaper, why have you bypassed the La Jolla residents?

Abbie wrote on Oct 26, 2007 9:24 AM:The TV coverage of our area is non- existant. I am so frustrated by it all. I feel that we are stuck out here with no info and that the LA stations just don't care and the San Diego stations don't show anything because few of us can get those channels. I emailed each of the TV stations yesterday with this exact complaint. I wrote one great letter and then copied and pasted to each channel and sent it to as many people at the channel as I could. What if there was a real emergency? We are advised to turn to our local TV channels, a lot of good that does, huh? If we lived in Malibu or Arrowhead we would have plenty of info. Riverside county - none. We are lucky if we get the weather once in a while. Maybe if the channels get thousands of emails - they will start paying attention to us. They are putting us in danger by not keeping us updated. It is not a good situation.

La Jolla wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:12 AM:Sorry, but the La Jolla Reservation is a nation, and should take care of their own.

Mrs. Weller wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:23 AM:Temeculites, how is the air quality today? We are supposed to go to Vail Lake this weekend. My kids going Bonkers this week is nothing compared to others, I know. I hope I'm not offending anyone by asking.

Bob on Live Oak wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:24 AM:I live in the area on Live Oak in Fallbrook that is not being allowed back in. Does anyone know why or when? By the way I sent an email to the UT, SignonSandiego, ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC thanking the NORTH COUNTY TIMES for remembering Fallbrook is in San Diego County.

Glory wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:31 AM:Excuse me, but they are still people in need. Yes, they are being helped by the other Tribes along with their own. My problem is this, why are they being ignored. In fact, not just them, all of the people who live in La Jolla, Palomar Mountain, Pauma Valley, are being overlooked and it is not right. Your comment is not only incorrect, it is biased. People are people period. If you're Native American and were taught the "old ways", yes our people take care of our own plus others. It still doesn't deviate the fact that there has been little to no reporting at all for the residents of this area.

vc resident wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:32 AM:I am very saddened that we jump to conclusions that just because someone is an illegal immigrant they are bad people. I saw a spanish interview where these poor people who are PEOPLE just like you and I were sleeping in their car because in addition to getting evacuated and fearing that also had to fear getting deported --- they were told to take stuff back for their large family back in the car where they were all sleeping. There are always two sides to every story and these poor people deserve a chance like the rest of us.

JenInTemecula wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:45 AM:Abbie, I was just going to write about how people should e-mail the local tv networks to obtain more info for us here in Riverside County!! Same wavelength here. I e-mailed the networks and requested coverage of the fires in Riverside County. Now we all have to use our voices , we exist here too!!!

JKCDN wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:49 AM:Does anyone know why information on the Del Dios Highway is not available? All websites posting road closures do not refer to the Del Dios. For such a major highway, it seems we are all in the dark as to whether or not it is open. If not open, when?

Marga Kellogg, NCT reporter wrote on Oct 26, 2007 11:01 AM:Looking for information My name is Marga Kellogg and I'm a reporter for the North County Times. I'm looking for information about the lives of John Bain and Victoria Fox, the Poway couple who died this week in the Witch fire. Any insights or anecdotes about their lives would be helpful .... their contributions to the community, the roles they played, what happened when the fire broke out this week. I am also looking for a photo of them. Please call me at 760 739 6654 or email me at mkellogg@nctimes.com. Thank you.

temecula wrote on Oct 26, 2007 12:05 PM:yes is there a letter anyone can provide on a website so that we can copy and paste and email to the same stations as some of the other people have. i think we still need coverage. there is still fire out there. we need to know about it, where ever the fire is. the only help we did get was through these blogs. so THANK YOU NORTH COUNTY TIMES. although there should be more coverage for everyone's sake.

temecularadio? wrote on Oct 26, 2007 12:07 PM:hey where were the temecula radio stations on this fire? did they report any? or have anything on the air?

WestIvyKeith wrote on Oct 26, 2007 1:06 PM:I just got home an hour ago. I'm on the NW side of Fallbrook, a couple of blocks from downtown. All is fine. The air has a smoky smell, and there is a light coating of ash, but that was to be expected. I want to thank all of the people that worked, and are still working, so hard to deal with this mess. I especially want to thank the North County Times and the operators of this blog. It was the ONLY source of information about what was going on in Fallbrook. I also want to send my best wishes to all of the people who weren't as lucky as I was.

Abbie wrote on Oct 26, 2007 3:05 PM:The more of us that write to our "local" channels the better. Maybe if they see that people live out here they may make some changes. Maybe they just don't know that we are here? I can't think of any other reason to ignore us.

CHOKING IN ELSINORE wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:02 PM:We are getting so smoked out here in Elsinore. I live off Lake Street and I am hearing sirens pretty frequent and I drove up Temescal Canyon Road and I had trouble seeing the road. What is the latest on the Santiago fire. I have some Mom's that live in Horsethief Canyon that are counting on the authorities to let them know when and if to evacuate. If it were me, I think I would start considering it. At least the big stuff...cars, boats, toys, etc. Please advise. God Bless All especially our heroic firefighters and law enforcement.

bit of heaven wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:05 PM: Does anyone know how the fire started in Rainbow, which in turn jumped the 15/395 highway to Fallbrook? I don't think I've seen any information on this yet. Just curious.

worried in elsinore wrote on Oct 26, 2007 10:37 PM:I can see the fire from my driveway here in Elsinore. It seems to be directly behind Trilogy in Corona, off of Temescal Canyon Road. It hasnt crested yet, but looks like it could some time tomorrow.