25-05-2025
PHOTOS: Plane drops red retardant over Springhurst Fire in North County
POWAY, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — Striking photos surfaced Saturday evening showing an air tanker releasing a cloud of red fire retardant over the Springhurst Fire in Poway — a coordinated firefighting effort that successfully halted the blaze's forward progress at 7 acres.
The brush fire broke out around 5:11 p.m. in the 12300 block of Springhurst Drive, prompting an immediate response from San Diego Fire-Rescue and other agencies. The flames quickly threatened homes in the area, leading authorities to issue an evacuation warning for residents between Springhurst Drive and Beeler Creek Trail.
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Air support played a key role in stopping the fire. Aerial images captured the moment a firefighting aircraft swooped over the brush-covered hills, releasing a vibrant red line of retardant designed to slow the fire's advance and protect nearby structures.
By 6:52 p.m., officials announced the fire's forward rate of spread had been stopped.
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'It ended up being about a 7-acre fire, but the crews worked really, really well together,' said Capt. Jason Shanley, information officer with San Diego Fire-Rescue Department. 'Coordinated effort was great.'
The evacuation warning was later lifted, allowing residents to return to their homes safely. Firefighters remained on scene into the evening to monitor hot spots and ensure containment lines were held.
No injuries or structural damage were reported.
Officials are reminding the public that with fire season ramping up, it's important to remain prepared and follow evacuation guidance when issued.
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