Fire in San Diego Riverbed prompts evacuation of nearby commercial stores as crews respond
Category: Climate & Environment
A brush fire erupted in a riverbed in Santee on Sunday evening, March 29, 2026, prompting evacuations at nearby commercial stores including Walmart and Michaels. The fire was first reported shortly before 6:50 p.m. and quickly escalated, burning approximately 3 to 5 acres by the time crews were able to halt its forward progress.
The fire started near the 100 block of Town Center Parkway, with flames threatening businesses located within 100 feet of the San Diego River. As of around 8:30 p.m., officials confirmed that the blaze had burned about 3 to 4 acres and was moving northward, but crews from the San Diego Fire Department (SDFD) and the Santee Fire Department managed to slow its spread.
Deputies from the San Diego Sheriff's Office assisted in evacuating shoppers from Walmart and Michaels, ensuring safety as heavy smoke filled the air. Fortunately, no residential evacuations were ordered, and officials reported that there was no imminent threat to nearby homes.
As the situation unfolded, a firefighting helicopter equipped for night operations was dispatched to assist ground crews in battling the flames. This helicopter is one of the few in California capable of such missions, highlighting the seriousness of the response. "They expect it to burn out at the Cuyamaca Bridge," said Sheriff’s Lt. Paul Michalke, indicating a strategic point for containment.
By 9:14 p.m., firefighters had successfully stopped the forward spread of the fire, and additional units had been requested to bolster firefighting efforts. Ground crews engaged in structure protection on the south side of the river due to the proximity of commercial structures.
Residents were advised to avoid the area as firefighting activity increased, with the Sheriff’s Office posting alerts on social media to keep the public informed. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation closely.
High temperatures reached the 80s in Santee earlier in the day, but had cooled to about 77 degrees when the fire ignited. Winds gusting out of the southwest at up to 11 mph contributed to the fire's growth, but firefighters remained vigilant, utilizing all available resources to combat the blaze.
Officials confirmed that as of late Sunday night, the fire was contained and no additional evacuations were deemed necessary. The quick response from local fire departments and law enforcement helped avert a potentially more dangerous situation, allowing shoppers to return to safety.
As the community reflects on the incident, officials continue to remind residents to be cautious and aware of fire conditions, especially during warmer months. The fire serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and swift action in emergencies.