Overview
- The blaze erupted around 5:45 p.m. Friday near Henderson Road and Pala Mission Road, racing uphill through brush to consume 183 acres in its first two hours.
- By Saturday morning the Henderson Fire had charred approximately 200 acres and remained only 5 percent contained, Cal Fire reports.
- More than 160 firefighters from multiple agencies supported by engines, tankers, air tankers and helicopters are battling the fire in steep, remote hills.
- Mandatory evacuation orders cover nearby hillside communities including Pala Band of Mission Indians lands and a temporary shelter is operating at the Pala Casino parking lot, with closures on Henderson Road, Pala Mission Road, State Route 76 and Magee Road.
- Forecast highs of 91 degrees and wind gusts up to 25 mph threaten to drive new fire growth and complicate containment efforts.