Potrero Wildfire Expected To Be Fully Contained Sunday Evening

POTRERO, CA — A wildfire that burned hundreds of acres, forced evacuations and destroyed two structures in southeastern San Diego County was expected to be fully contained Sunday as Tropical Storm Hilary moves into the region, officials said.

As of Sunday morning, the fire, called the Coyote Fire, was 85 percent contained. Cal Fire Capt. Mike Cornette told Patch that full containment was expected by 6 p.m.

"Rain has assisted us this morning in extinguishing hot spots," Cornette told Patch. "We will continue to patrol the fire seeking and mitigating hazards throughout the day. The mudslides can pose a threat and we are constantly monitoring for any changes and will notify the residents if additional hazards exist."

The fire sparked Thursday afternoon on Coyote Holler Road in the community of Potrero. The wildfire blackened 466 acres and threatened homes. One home and an outbuilding was destroyed, Cornette said.

All evacuation orders and warnings were lifted at 10 a.m. Saturday, according to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department.

"If you were evacuated, it is now safe to return home," officials said. "Drive slowly and carefully. Be mindful of firefighters, deputies, road and utility crews working in the area."

A total of 80 firefighting personnel were assigned to the fire Sunday morning, according to Cal Fire. Resources included nine engines and two hand crews.

The cause of the fire remained under investigation.