A controlled burn near Highway 78 and the S2 marker spread beyond the prescribed plan Thursday, leading to a large fire, Cal Fire officials confirmed.
The fire sparked near the San Felipe area, east of Julian. California Highway Patrol officials say the S2/S22 is about eight miles from the fire.
By 5 p.m., Cal Fire officials said the blaze had scorched 550 acres and was 30 percent contained. Approximately 500 acres are outside the prescribed burn lines.
Officials immediately called for additional resources to assist with the increased acreage, including air tankers and helicopters.
Lakeside Fire and Heartand Fire were among the agencies sending crews to help battle the San Felipe blaze.
Four additional water tenders were also requested. The water district opened the well on Highway 79 to fire crews for water supply.
CHP officials have shut down S2 and Highway 78. Officials say smoke is visible from the Shelter Valley and Julian area. At this point, no structures are threatened.
Officials say there is currently a wind advisory in effect for the fire area, with west winds 20 to 30 mph and gusts up to 45 mph. Stronger winds are expected late this afternoon through the evening.
Cal Fire officials said a major unexpected wind shift caused the Felipe Fire to burn outside the containment boundaries.
Check back for updates.
Photo Credit: Brandi Powell