Steele Fire update: Spread halted, evacuations hold

Evacuation orders have been issued for some residents in Rancho San Diego after a fire erupted Wednesday near Star Acres Drive.

Steele Fire

According to Cal Fire, as of 4:12 p.m. the forward rate of spread was stopped. The fire remains approximately 28 acres and is 40% contained. The blaze started around 2:15 p.m.

“It's burning at a moderate rate of speed, which is a little bit faster than a person can walk. So, it is concerning because it is burning in heavy brush. It is being driven by the wind right now,” said Mike Cornette, a public information officer with Cal Fire.

Injuries reported

No injuries have been reported at this time, though the status could change as conditions develop.

Evacuation orders

Evacuation warnings issued earlier by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department have now been lifted due to improved containment of the fire. However, some evacuation orders are still in place. Sheriff’s officials urge returning residents to use caution and remain aware of firefighters still working in the area.

The San Diego Sheriff's Department and Steele Canyon High School is serving as the temporary evacuation point at 12440 Campo Road, El Cajon, Calif.

➡ See a map of the areas under evacuation orders and warnings.

As the flames spread toward homes in the area of Vista Cielo Lane, authorities cleared residents out of rural neighborhoods east and north of state Route 94; south of Jamacha Road, Willow Glen Drive and Cottonwood Golf Course; and west of the eastern reaches of Steele Canyon Golf Club. People in areas to the south of that perimeter were advised to prepare to evacuate on short notice.

Road closures

Steele Canyon Road is closed at Via Caliente Del Sol and at Jamul Drive. Access is limited to residents only, according to California Highway Patrol in El Cajon. Authorities urge the public to use alternate routes and avoid the area unless absolutely necessary to allow emergency crews to work safely and efficiently.