With our free press under threat and federal funding for public media gone, your support matters more than ever. Help keep the LAist newsroom strong, become a monthly member or increase your support today.
Wildfire in San Luis Obispo forces evacuations (updated)
A fire has erupted in San Luis Obispo, burning about 750 acres and causing over 50 homeowners to leave their properties near State Highway 58.
(
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
)
Firefighters are getting a handle on a wildfire in San Luis Obispo County. The Calf Fire burned more than 600 acres about 5 miles east of Santa Margarita. It's now 65 percent contained.
The fire broke out around noon on Monday and prompted about 50 homeowners to leave their properties near State Highway 58. Officials have removed a mandatory evacuation order for dozens of homes, but they are still warning residents to be cautious.
Firefighters hope to fully contain the fire by tomorrow morning.
Cal Fire spokeswoman Tina Rose said the rough terrain and dry brush make it difficult for the hundreds of firefighters on the fire to control the flames.
Sponsored message
"There’s no easy way to get in," said Rose. "There’s no road that drives up close to it. It’s all walking in, or hitting it from the air with our air tankers or helicopters."
Rose said winds of up to 21 miles an hour changed direction throughout the day, so firefighters have been keeping a close watch.
There’s no word yet on what sparked the fire.
This story has been updated.
Correction: This post originally reported the fire was up to 750 acres.
At LAist, we believe in journalism without censorship and the right of a free press to speak truth to those in power. Our hard-hitting watchdog reporting on local government, climate, and the ongoing housing and homelessness crisis is trustworthy, independent and freely accessible to everyone thanks to the support of readers like you.
But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
