RESIDENTS ALLOWED TO GO HOME AFTER COYOTE FIRE

East County News Service

August 19, 2023 (Potrero) -- CAL FIRE and San Diego County Fire report the Coyote Fire has grown to 466 acres, with 55% containment in the Potrero area.

The Sheriff’s Department is reopening all roads and allowing residents to return home. Drive slowly and carefully and be mindful of firefighters and other emergency personnel working in the area.

The shelter at Mountain Empire High School at 3305 Buckman Springs Road in Pine Valley will close.

Residents are encouraged to fortify their homes in preparation for the incoming storm, Tropical Cyclone Hilary. Sandbags are available at the following locations.

People should call ahead to double-check availability and remember to bring a shovel to fill the bags. Some stations may have a limited supply.

• Bonita: Bonita-Sunnyside Fire Station: 4900 Bonita Road, Bonita, CA 91902, P: 619-479-2346
• De Luz: 39431 De Luz Road, Fallbrook, CA 92028 P: 760-728-242
• Dulzura: Dulzura Fire Station #30: 17304 Highway 94, Dulzura, CA 91917, P: 619-468-3391
• Fallbrook: Pala Mesa Fire Station #4, 4375 Pala Mesa Drive, Fallbrook, CA 92028, P: 760-723-2024
• Julian: Julian-Cuyamaca: Fire Station #56, 3407 Hwy 79, Julian, CA 92036, P: 760-765-2885
• Ramona: Ramona Fire Station #82, 3410 Dye Road, Ramona, CA 92065, P: 760-789-0107
• Rincon: Rincon Fire Station #70: 16971 Highway 76, Pauma Valley, CA 92061, P: 760-742-3243
• Warner Springs: Sunshine Summit Fire Station #59, 35227 Highway 79, Warner Springs, CA 92086, P: 760-782-9113

Residents in the burn zone are encouraged to survey their property and store loose items. High winds and heavy rain is expected Sunday.

Rain can cause flooding and erosion, particularly in areas that are not covered by plants, landscaping, grass and trees. Rain runoff can sweep topsoil, mud, plant material and debris off land and downstream where it can damage homes, clog culverts and storm drains, and flood and damage roadways.

For more storm preparation go to County News Center. To receive emergency notifications for this and all disasters, register for alerts at www.alertsandiego.org and download the SD Emergency mobile app.