Thorn Fire Update: Forward Spread Halted, Evacuations Remain In Effect

CAMPO, CA — Firefighters halted the Thorn Fire's forward spread overnight after the wildfire threatened structures, prompted evacuations and shut down a stretch of Interstate 8 Wednesday in Campo.

The blaze had burned 1,201 acres and was 10% contained Thursday morning, according to Cal Fire San Diego. More than 600 firefighters, supported by over 90 pieces of fire equipment, remained assigned to the fire.

Cal Fire credited night-flying helicopters with helping slow the fire's spread by making continuous water drops on active flames throughout the night, giving firefighters time to strengthen containment lines and gain ground on the blaze. Crews planned to spend Thursday reinforcing containment lines, extinguishing hot spots and improving containment.

The blaze broke out Wednesday afternoon on Buckthorn Trail and spread rapidly through heavy vegetation, crossing I-8 and threatening nearby structures.

The fire prompted evacuation orders and warnings for multiple areas near Campo and forced the closure of I-8 between Crestwood and Ribbonwood roads.

The left lane of I-8 reopened in both directions between Crestwood and Ribbonwood roads late Wednesday night, according to the California Highway Patrol. Officials advised motorists to drive cautiously as firefighting operations continued nearby.

As of Thursday morning, evacuation orders remain in place for zones SDC-2174, SDC-2175, SDC-2176, SDC-2331-A, SDC-2332, SDC-2333, SDC-2334, SDC-2241, SDC-2242, SDC-2243 and SDC-2244. Evacuation warnings remain in place for zones SDC-2117, SDC-2177, SDC-2245, SDC-2335, SDC-2408 and SDC-2410.

An emergency evacuation shelter was established at Golden Acorn Casino at 1800 Golden Acorn Way in Campo.

The cause of the fire remained under investigation.