Firefighters Battle Hay Blaze in San Pasqual Valley for 11 Hours
URGENT UPDATE: Firefighters are currently battling a massive hay fire that has consumed hundreds of bales in the San Pasqual Valley, near the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The blaze, reported around 11:20 p.m. on Saturday, October 14, 2023, has already prompted over 11 hours of firefighting efforts.
San Diego Fire-Rescue dispatched five fire engines, three brush rigs, and a water tender to tackle the flames. In addition, Cal Fire has sent two bulldozers to help break apart the burning hay bales, as revealed by Captain Jason Shanley, a spokesperson for the department.
Initially thought to be a dumpster fire, crews were surprised to discover hay bales ablaze in an open field upon arrival. “We called in Cal Fire bulldozers to tear them all apart,” Shanley stated. This critical action is essential to prevent the fire from spreading further.
According to a post by the San Diego Fire-Rescue on Facebook, the fire has charred “hundreds of large rolled and stacked hay bales.” Firefighters are actively soaking the bales with water and foam to extinguish the flames. Smoke from the fire has persisted in the area, impacting visibility and air quality into Sunday morning.
The cause of this fire remains undetermined, and officials are working diligently to control the situation. Residents in the vicinity are advised to stay indoors and avoid the area due to heavy smoke.
As the situation evolves, stay tuned for updates on the firefighting efforts and the status of the blaze. This incident underscores the risks posed by wildfires and the heroic efforts of our firefighters in combating such emergencies.
