Vegetation Fire Forces Evacuations, Shuts Down Highway In Ramona Area

RAMONA, CA — A vegetation fire forced residents to flee their homes Thursday afternoon in the community of Ramona.

The blaze, called the Rancho Fire, sparked Thursday afternoon near state Route 78 and Casner Road, just east of Ramona, according to Cal Fire. As of 2:30 p.m., the blaze had spread to 50 acres and was 15% contained.

By 5 p.m., the fire had scorched 105 acres and remained 15% contained.

The fire was spreading at a moderate rate and threatening structures, officials said. Ground crews and personnel aboard air tankers and water-dropping helicopters worked to subdue the flames.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Office issued evacuation orders and warnings for nearby areas.

Evacuation orders were issued for the following zone: SDC-1019 and SDC-1020. Evacuation warnings were issued for the following zones: SDC-0948, SDC-0949 and SDC-0950. A temporary evacuation point was opened at the Ramona Rodeo at 422 Aqua Lane in Ramona, according to the sheriff's office.

SR-78 was closed in both directions at Casner Road, according to Caltrans.

Westbound traffic was closed at Old Julian Highway and eastbound traffic was closed at Rancho Santa Teresa, according to the California Highway Patrol.

"There is no estimated time of reopening," the CHP said. "Please avoid the area and use alternate routes."

A crash led to the fire, the CHP said on social media.