Full Breakdown
Creelman Fire Threatens Ramanda Community, Prompting Large-Scale Evacuation
7/24/2026, 3:30:06 AM
Core Event: Rapidly Spreading Brush Fire Near Ramanda
A brush fire ignited on Creelman Lane in the Ramanda area of San Diego County on Wednesday afternoon, just before 3 p.m. The blaze, dubbed the Creelman Fire, moved quickly through steep, rocky terrain toward the master-planned San Diego Country Estates community. By late afternoon the fire had trapped two people, who were rescued by a Cal Fire helicopter. No injuries were reported, but the fire prompted evacuation orders for more than 2,000 residents and the activation of multiple shelters and animal-evacuation sites.
Data & Statistics
- Acreage: Reported sizes range from 315 acres (California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection) to “nearly 350 acres.”
- Containment: Estimates vary from 0 % to 20 % (Union Tribune) and 60 % as of the evening.
- Evacuations: Over 2,000 people ordered to leave; shelters at Olive Peirce Middle School (overnight Red Cross shelter) and Ramanda High School (temporary evacuation point).
- Animal evacuation: Large-animal site at Ramanda Rodeo.
- Wind & temperature: Winds 20–25 mph from the west; ambient temperatures in the mid-80s °F.
- Structures: One accessory dwelling unit confirmed destroyed; additional structures threatened along Oak Springs Road.
Official Statements & Responses
Cal Fire officials described an “aggressive air-and-ground response,” deploying two night-flying helicopters and fire-retardant drops that helped curb the fire’s advance. The San Diego County Air Pollution Control District issued a smoke advisory for eastern San Diego County, urging residents, especially those with respiratory or heart conditions, to limit outdoor activity and stay indoors when possible. The American Red Cross opened an overnight shelter at Olive Peirce Middle School, and the Ramanda Rodeo served as a large-animal evacuation point.
On-the-Ground Reports
Residents described thick black smoke and flames descending hillsides near their homes. John Tibbott, returning from a hike, waited at a temporary evacuation center while his wife remained at home. Many evacuees spent the night in cars or on school lawns, with some children playing on the grass while they awaited clearance to return.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the fire’s size and containment level. The New York Times cited 315 acres with no containment, NBC San Diego reported 347 acres and 60 % containment by evening, and the San Diego Union Tribune noted “nearly 350 acres” and about 20 % containment. No source provided a definitive post-event assessment, leaving the exact acreage and containment status unclear.
Verbatim Quote
- “We’ve got fire engines patrolling through the neighborhood making sure that we are putting out any spot fires and trying to contain that fire and prevent it from entering into any of those homes,” — Capt. Mike Cornette, Cal Fire
What’s Next
Cal Fire plans to continue night-time aerial drops and ground line construction over the coming days, aiming to increase containment and protect remaining structures. The Ramanda Air Attack Base has been re-equipped as part of a $20 million infrastructure improvement project, enhancing the region’s capacity to respond to future wildfires. The smoke advisory remains in effect until air quality improves.
