CHARIOT FIRE 65% CONTAINED, SOME EVACUATIONS LIFTED

Photo by Kenneth Douglas

July 11, 2013 (Mount Laguna) -- Mandatory evacuations for all areas south of Los Huecos Road were lifted today as of 6:00 p.m., with the Chariot Fire now 65 percent contained.  Evacuation orders remain in effect on Los Huecos Road and North to Kwaaymii Point.

The wildfire has charred 7,055 acres, Cal Fire estimates, causing seven injuries.  Full containment is projected for  July 14.

Nearly 2,000 firefighers are battling the fire, which has destroyed 120 structures along Sunrise Highway.  Cause of the conflagration remains under investigation.

Equipment includes 142 fire engines, 3 airtankers, 2 helicopters and 8 bulldozers.

The evacuation center remains open at Joan MacQueen Middle School, 2001 Tavern Road.