Aliso Fire: 55% Contained, Fire Department Seeks Cause

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Residents returned to their homes as firefighters continued to get a handle on the Aliso Fire which bloomed on the border of Aliso Viejo and Laguna Beach over the weekend. On Monday, Orange County Fire Authority, Laguna Beach Fire Department and coordinating fire agencies sought the public's assistance in determining the cause.

Evacuees were allowed to return home to Laguna Beach's Top of the World neighborhood Sunday night, though morning classes at Top of the World Elementary School were canceled on Monday, according to the Laguna Beach Unified School District. No road closures were in effect as of Monday afternoon.

Approximately 525 firefighters and associated personnel worked the scene, clearing vegetation and create a border around the fire, 55% contained as of Monday afternoon, Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Tony Bommarito said. That blaze, which began Saturday--the cause is as of yet undetermined--has affected 2,000 homes, 1,500 residents of Aliso Viejo and Laguna Beach.

No structures were damaged and none are threatened, according to officials. Three have been injured in the fire that grew to 150 acres prompting a response from six air tankers and four helicopters that made drops of water and fire retardant along the perimeter of the fire, Bommarito said.

Monday's weather was calm, with winds of only 5 mph expected, the public was reminded to "remain vigilant and monitor changes in weather and fire conditions."

All in the area are reminded to drive slowly as emergency crews and equipment are working throughout the fire area.

Damage inspection will be ongoing, fire officials said. Anyone with information is asked to call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Costa Mesa has rescheduled their prom, now set for Saturday night, postponing it one week at Soka University, the Newport Mesa Unified School District said.

Fire investigators have been "on scene investigating the burn and surrounding areas to determine a cause," according to a release from unified command.

Anyone with information, video or photos of the immediate area at the early stages of the fire was urged to call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Related:

Aliso Fire: 2 Injured As Battle Against Blaze Continues

Thousands Evacuated As Aliso Fire Grows

Laguna Beach Police Department Photo