San Roque Area Update

Calling from the field around 1 a.m., reporter Ethan Stewart, standing just below San Roque and Foothill called the area a “ghost town on the State Street side.” The fire was making a run down San Roque toward downtown.

The fire is only a few hundred yards from Foothill in the San Roque area, but doesn’t appear to be burning any houses at the moment thanks to the firefighters concerted effort to hold Foothill Road.

Firefighters extinguished a small spot fire at Steven’s Park and trying to save homes at Canyon Acres off Ontare. One structure is already burning there; firefighters requested three to four extra engines to protect approximately 12 houses.

A spot fire was also put out under San Roque Bridge.

Stewart also reported that there is a lot of helicopter activity, despite brutal winds that are swirling and gusting. “The ash is so thick,” he said, “it is difficult to see. It looks like it is snowing.”

An hour later, Stewart said that all things considered it seemed somewhat quiet thanks to firefighters’ heroic efforts. The fire is still being held off Foothill Road.

Stewart also said there are unconfirmed reports of flare ups on the eastern flank behind Sycamore Canyon.

Driving down Milpas at 2 a.m. Stewart noted that the air temperature on the Eastside has dropped approximately 10 degrees from two hours ago.

Helicopter Refilling Operation Moved

Helicopters aiding in the firefight will be conducting water filling operations at Dos Pueblos High School overnight. Residents should expect noise and overflights throughout the night. The American Red Cross Evacuation Shelter set up in the DPHS gym will remain operational.

Jesusita Fire County Call Center Closed

Due to the above Mandatory Evacuation Order, the County Call Center has shut down to relocate overnight. Calls made to (805) 681-5197 will no longer be answered. A new telephone numbers will be distributed for the Call Center when it reopens in the morning in a future press release.