SANTEE, Calif. (KGTV) — Flames sparked in heavy brush in a Santee riverbed on Thursday, spreading dangerously close to several homes.
The three- to four-acre brush fire was reported off Mission Gorge Rd. and Fanita Dr. just after 12 p.m. Sky10 video showed flames in the brush behind homes along Willowgrove Ave.
At least one helicopter responded to the fire and quickly began making water drops, pulling water from the San Diego River nearby. Several firefighters were also on the ground spraying the flames from behind homes.
One firefighter has been injured, though the severity of their injuries was unclear.
San Diego Sheriff's Department said seven or eight homes need to be temporarily evacuated, but should be able to return home since the fire has been contained.
SDSO closed Carlton Hills Blvd. between Mission Gorge Rd. and Carlton Oaks Dr. while crews fought the blaze.
Crews are expected to be in the area into the night to mop up the area.
