SAN MARCOS, Calif. (KGTV) – Fire crews responded to a brush fire burning at Palomar College that sent thick smoke into the air on Thursday.
The blaze began at about 12:30 p.m. in the arboretum on the campus located on 1140 W Mission Rd., according to the San Marcos Fire Department and the college.
As of 2:55 p.m., the fire had reached approximately 30 acres and crews had stopped its forward spread. Fire officials on scene initially believed the fire had reached 40 acres, but later updated that number in the evening.
Palomar College said that the fire was no longer a threat to campus. It's not yet clear how the fire began. Palomar College doesn't currently have students on campus.
Smoke from the fire could be seen across North County, prompting CAL FIRE to respond with air support.
Evacuation warnings were issued for east of Las Posas Rd., west to N. Twin Oaks Valley Rd., north of W. Mission Rd., and south of N. Borden Rd., according to San Diego Sheriff's Department. Those warnings were lifted shortly after crews stopped the fire's progress.
The National Weather Service said Thursday that winds in the area will be relatively light and temperatures will reach the high 80s, bringing fire elevated weather conditions throughout the day.
As of 7:30 p.m. fire officials say the fire was 90 percent contained.
