Residents of several mountain towns that were threatened by the Julian fire are being allowed to return to their homes. The California Department of Forestry says officials decided last night to lift the evacuation order for the communities of Warner Springs, Ranchita and San Felipe. Those towns are home to more than 1,200 people. The fire is now heading further into the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, where there is little vegetation for it to burn. It is 60% contained and officials hope to have it fully surrounded by Sunday evening. Since it started on July 29th, the fire has burned nearly 54,000 acres. It has destroyed 30 homes, 92 barns and other outbuildings and 118 vehicles.
This post was last modified on 01/31/2009 5:32 pm