Wildfire Prompts Evacuations Near U.S.-Mexico Border

SAN DIEGO, CA — A wildfire broke out Tuesday amid critical fire weather conditions, prompting evacuations in the southern reaches of San Diego County.

The blaze, called the Border 79 Fire, has burned two dozen acres north of the U.S.-Mexico border, according to Cal Fire.

• UPDATE: Wildfire 70% Contained Near U.S.-Mexico Border

The fire sparked at 10:52 a.m. near state Route 94 and Barrett Truck Trail near the community of Tecate, according to Cal Fire. The blaze was burning "with a critical rate of spread" and has the potential to become a "major fire."

As of 12:43 p.m., Cal Fire said the fire had blackened 24 acres and was 10% contained. It was previously reported that the fire had burned 30 acres.

Authorities issued an evacuation order and warning for nearby areas. See an updated map here.

A temporary evacuation point was established at Regal Edwards Rancho San Diego at 2951 Jamacha Road in El Cajon.

The cause of the fire was under investigation.