A fast-moving vegetation fire in Sorrento Valley, San Diego, prompted evacuations, road closures and a major firefighting response after flames broke out Sunday afternoon, August 16, 2026.
The fire began near the canyon between Sorrento Valley Boulevard and Carmel Mountain Road, with reports indicating it was first noticed at approximately 1:30 p.m. Firefighters from San Diego Fire-Rescue, with assistance from Cal Fire, responded as the blaze spread through vegetation.
The fire grew rapidly during the afternoon and evening. By Monday, reports citing Incident Command said the blaze had reached approximately 130 acres.
The expanding fire led authorities to issue evacuation orders and warnings in affected areas, while several roads were closed as firefighters worked to protect nearby communities. Aircraft were also involved in the firefighting response.
As of the latest available reports, the fire’s containment remained extremely limited, although evacuation orders and warnings were subsequently lifted in some areas, with the Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve remaining affected.
Residents across parts of San Diego reported seeing smoke from significant distances as winds carried the plume away from the fire area.
Officials have not reported a confirmed death associated with the Sorrento Valley wildfire in the sources reviewed. The cause of the fire also has not been established in the latest reports.
Firefighters continue working to contain the blaze while authorities monitor conditions and protect nearby communities. Residents should follow official evacuation instructions and avoid entering closed areas.
This remains a developing wildfire situation, with acreage, containment and evacuation information subject to change as incident commanders provide further updates.