Claro Fire Triggers Evacuations, Impacts Nearby Areas

The Claro Fire ignited Thursday afternoon near the Carlsbad and San Marcos border in San Diego County, burning at least 40-45 acres and threatening homes near Rancho Santa Fe Road and San Elijo Road. The blaze began in a canyon behind Camino Minero and prompted rapid deployment of ground crews, air tankers, and a helicopter. Evacuation orders were issued for a San Marcos neighborhood south of San Elijo Road and east of Rancho Santa Fe Road, with a temporary evacuation point at Stagecoach Park in Carlsbad. Authorities enacted multiple road closures and advised residents to avoid the area. Smoke from the fire is affecting nearby communities, including La Costa Oaks and Encinitas. There is no official information yet on the fire's containment or cause, and monitoring continues.