A rapidly spreading brush fire in Sorrento Valley, San Diego, led to mandatory evacuations on Monday morning as firefighters battled the flames. The fire was first reported at approximately 9:20 a.m. near Sorrento Valley Drive, just east of Interstate 5, and by 10:30 a.m., it had expanded to an estimated 30 to 40 acres, according to local officials.

Evacuation orders were issued for areas including East Ocean Air Drive and surrounding neighborhoods such as Abalone Landing Terrace, Sea Pearl Cove, the 10500 block of Sand Crab Place, and the 10500 block of Corte Jardin Del Mar. Additionally, residents of the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve were also instructed to evacuate.

Authorities urged those in the affected zones to leave without delay and to heed the guidance of emergency responders. An evacuation warning was also put in place for the 5000 block of Sea Mist Lane, advising residents to prepare for a potential swift evacuation.

A temporary evacuation center was set up at Mandell Weiss Eastgate Park. In response to the fire, Sorrento Valley Boulevard was closed between Vista Sorrento Parkway and Camino Santa Fe, with officials recommending that drivers steer clear of the area. Weather conditions at the time included south-southwest winds at around 15 mph, temperatures near 69 degrees, and a relative humidity of about 75%. Authorities noted that there was at least one report of an explosion heard prior to the fire's outbreak, although the cause is still under investigation.