Fast-Moving Brush Fire Threatens Homes, Prompts Evacuations In San Diego's Sorrento Valley

SAN DIEGO, CA — A fast-moving brush fire threatened homes and prompted evacuation orders and warnings Monday in San Diego before firefighters gained the upper hand on the blaze by evening.

The Sorrento Fire was reported at 9:20 a.m. near Sorrento Valley Boulevard and Vista Sorrento Parkway in the Sorrento Valley neighborhood, according to the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

The fire quickly spread to about 40 acres by 10:22 a.m. and 65 acres by 11:19 a.m. As of 5:13 p.m., the fire was 90 acres and 40% contained, according to the fire department.

The San Diego Police Department initially issued evacuation orders for residents in the 10500 block of Sand Crab Place and the 10500 block of Corte Jardin Del Mar. Residents in the 5000 block of Sea Mist Lane were placed under evacuation warnings.

As the fire grew, Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve and surrounding neighborhoods were placed under expanded evacuation orders and warnings.

"This is an evolving incident with rapidly changing conditions," police said on X.

Evacuation orders were issued for residents in zones SDC-1492-B, SDC-1444-B, SDC-1494, SDC-1444-A and SDC-1443. Evacuation warnings were issued for zones SDC-1492-A, SDC-1442, SDC-1399, SDC-1401, SDC-1446, SDC-1445, SDC-1497, SDC-1496 and SDC-1493.

"A mandatory evacuation order means there is an immediate threat to life," police said. "An evacuation warning means there is a potential threat to life and property. Be prepared to leave at a moment's notice."

A temporary evacuation point was established at Mandell Weiss Eastgate Park at the intersection of Eastage Mall and Regent Road.

"Please follow evacuations warnings and orders," fire officials said on X.

By 5:08 p.m., all evacuation warnings had been lifted. Zones SDC-1444-B, SDC-1492-C and SDC-1444-C remained under evacuation orders.

"As residents return to reopened areas, please drive slowly, stay alert, and watch for emergency personnel working in the area," police said.

Sorrento Valley Boulevard was closed between Vista Sorrento Parkway and Camino Santa Fe.

All trails within Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve and Del Mar Mesa in the Sorrento Valley and Rancho Peñasquitos communities were closed.

Several fire departments were helping the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department battle the blaze.

Smoke was visible in nearby communities. The city of Poway issued a smoke advisory.

"Smoke may be visible to the west and air quality may start to be impacted," officials said. "Residents are encouraged to keep windows closed and sensitive groups should limit outdoor activity."

The cause of the fire was under investigation.