Marine Families Evacuated Over Southern California Wildfires

MP's will use loudspeakers if the evacuation of the entire base at Camp Pendleton becomes imminent.

Marines reported to work as 800 family members were relocated to another housing area. File photo: Cpl. Tom Sloan.

(CAMP PENDLETON) - Firefighters at Camp Pendleton are currently fighting two fires on the Southern California Marine Corps base.

The Horno fire has burned 6,000 acres, that is the largest fire. So far officials say it is 10% contained. Sections of the Horno fire had threatened Interstate 5, causing a temporary closure from Highway 76 to San Onofre that has now been lifted.

The Wilcox fire has burned approximately 200 acres. That fire is reported to be 80% contained. A section of Basilone Road was closed as a precautionary measure but has now been reopened.

The Marines say a third fire was recently contained on the base's 21 Area. They say it is comprised of several smaller fires, covering an area of roughly two acres.

Camp Pendleton authorities have relocated residents of San Onofre to San Mateo. Approximately 800 family members have been affected by the move. A base spokesperson says it was a precautionary measure in light of the proximity of the Horno fire.

As Camp Pendleton's own families are evacuated from housing, Marines there continue to support their neighbors: donating over 2,100 cots and other essentials to San Diego relief centers.

A wildfire burns on Wilcox Range in Camp Pendleton Marine Corps photo: Grant T. Walker

They also contributed fire trucks and personnel to off-base firefighting efforts, and they opened the Fallbrook Gate to over 23,000 civilian vehicles, allowing them to travel through Camp Pendleton to the north.

Camp Pendleton officials say only key and essential personnel, to include I Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Base personnel, should report aboard the base.

"All other military members and DOD employees will not be required to report to work due to safety concerns. However, they must contact their organizations and provide an update to their status."

MP's will use loudspeakers if evacuation becomes imminent. Bring military ID cards, blankets, pillows and a minimum amount of belongings.