San Diego County, December 16, 2025
As the Thing Fire continues to blaze in San Diego County, firefighting efforts are actively underway. The fire has engulfed approximately 6,500 acres with only 10% containment, prompting mandatory evacuation orders for several communities. Authorities urge residents to stay informed and adhere to safety guidelines as crews work tirelessly to address the dangerous terrain and dry conditions. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Residents are encouraged to monitor official sources for the latest updates and evacuation protocols.
San Diego County Wildfire Update: Thing Fire Status as of December 15, 2025
San Diego County, California – As of December 15, 2025, the Thing Fire in San Diego County remains active, with firefighting efforts ongoing to contain the blaze. The fire has affected approximately 6,500 acres and is currently 10% contained. Evacuation orders have been issued for several communities in the fire’s path, and residents are advised to stay informed through official channels.
Fire Details
- Location: Otay Mountain Wilderness, northwest aspect of Otay Mountain
- Size: 6,500 acres
- Containment: 10%
- Evacuations: Orders in place for affected communities
- Cause: Under investigation
Evacuation Orders
Mandatory evacuation orders have been implemented for areas threatened by the Thing Fire. Residents in these zones are urged to evacuate immediately and follow guidance from local authorities. For the most current information on evacuation zones and safety measures, please refer to official communications from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department and CAL FIRE.
Firefighting Efforts
Firefighters are actively working to contain the Thing Fire, employing both air and ground resources. The challenging terrain and dry conditions have made firefighting efforts difficult, but crews are committed to protecting lives and property. The public is encouraged to avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to operate effectively.
Safety Precautions
Residents in and around the affected areas should remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders. It’s crucial to stay informed through official channels and follow any additional instructions from local authorities. For those in evacuation zones, please ensure you have a plan in place and are prepared to leave promptly if conditions worsen.
Background
Wildfires are a recurring concern in San Diego County, especially during the dry season. The Thing Fire is the latest in a series of wildfires that have impacted the region. Previous significant fires include the Palisades Fire in January 2025, which destroyed 6,837 structures, and the Gifford Fire in August 2025, which burned over 131,000 acres. These incidents highlight the importance of preparedness and community awareness in wildfire-prone areas.
Stay Informed
For the latest updates on the Thing Fire and other incidents, residents should monitor official sources such as the San Diego County Office of Emergency Services and CAL FIRE. These agencies provide real-time information and resources to assist the public during emergencies.
Contact Information
For inquiries or assistance, residents can contact the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department at (858) 565-5200 or visit their official website. For information on evacuation centers and resources, please refer to the San Diego County Office of Emergency Services.
Related Events
- Border 2 Fire: An active wildfire in the Otay Mountain Wilderness area, affecting approximately 6,500 acres with 10% containment as of January 25, 2025. Evacuation orders have been issued for nearby communities.
- Palisades Fire: A destructive wildfire in Los Angeles County that began on January 7, 2025, and was fully contained on January 31, 2025. The fire destroyed 6,837 structures and resulted in 12 fatalities.
- Gifford Fire: A megafire that burned over 131,000 acres in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, fully contained on September 28, 2025. The fire destroyed five structures and damaged two others.
Key Features of the Thing Fire Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Otay Mountain Wilderness, northwest aspect of Otay Mountain |
| Size | 6,500 acres |
| Containment | 10% |
| Evacuation Orders | Implemented for affected communities |
| Cause | Under investigation |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Thing Fire in San Diego County?
The Thing Fire is currently active, affecting approximately 6,500 acres with 10% containment. Evacuation orders are in place for several communities in the fire’s path.
What areas are under evacuation orders due to the Thing Fire?
Mandatory evacuation orders have been implemented for areas threatened by the Thing Fire. Residents in these zones are urged to evacuate immediately and follow guidance from local authorities.
How can residents stay informed about the Thing Fire?
Residents should monitor official sources such as the San Diego County Office of Emergency Services and CAL FIRE for the latest updates and information on evacuation zones and safety measures.
What are the previous significant wildfires in San Diego County?
Previous significant wildfires include the Palisades Fire in January 2025, which destroyed 6,837 structures, and the Gifford Fire in August 2025, which burned over 131,000 acres. These incidents highlight the importance of preparedness and community awareness in wildfire-prone areas.
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
