Southern Edge of evacuation area is 1/2 mile from us

Huge swath of evacuations west to I-5

6:24 a.m.
Mandatory evacuations have been ordered for a huge swath totaling 100 square miles and ranging from Interstate 5 on the west across Interstate 15 to the east, and north from state Route 56 to Lake Hodges, said San Diego fire department spokesman Maurice Luque.

Flames penetrated Rancho Bernardo from the northeast beginning around 3:30 a.m., and have jumped Interstate 15 at Carmel Valley Road, Luque said.

An undetermined number of homes are burning and there are reports of people trapped in their homes and cars, Luque said.

The flames are threatening to burn into Rancho Santa Fe, Luque said.

Residents can seek shelter at any of the designated high schools or Qualcomm Stadium, Luque said.

A force of 240 firefighters with 60 engines are trying to stop the blaze from advancing farther through the area. Ambulances are in the area to help the elderly and ill who cannot evacuate themselves, he said.