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Public Safety

Firefighters In San Diego County Battle 'Gopher Fire' Near I-15

Smoke from the Gopher Fire near I-15 in northern San Diego Country
Megan Burke
Smoke from the Gopher Fire near I-15 in northern San Diego Country

CAL FIRE reports a brush fire stopped traffic on Interstate 15 and threatened homes near Gopher Canyon Road in northern San Diego County. What firefighters called the "Gopher Fire" was first reported as a one-acre vegetation fire shortly before noon on Sunday.

The fire spread and consumed at least 28 acres. CAL FIRE said early reports of the fire underestimated its size. But CAL FIRE also reported the threat to structures has been "mitigated" and the fire was at least 50 percent contained as of late afternoon on Sunday. One fire fighter was reported injured, medically examined and released.

The decision to close I-15 was due to damage to power poles that support lines, crossing I-15.

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CAL FIRE reports that northbound lanes on I-15 have been reopened. Southbound lanes have also been reopened but drivers have been asked to use caution when entering the area.

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