**Rapidly Spreading Brush Fire in College Area Triggers Evacuations**

A brush fire erupted in the College Area on Thursday afternoon, quickly growing and endangering nearby structures. The blaze, which ignited near Fairmount Avenue and Montezuma Road at approximately 1:30 p.m., sent a massive smoke plume that was visible from Mission Valley and Serra Mesa.

By 2:45 p.m., the fire had spread to 37 acres and was burning on both sides of Montezuma Road. Multiple ground crews and Copter 3 were deployed to battle the flames, as confirmed by a San Diego Fire-Rescue post on X at 1:45 p.m. San Diego police initiated evacuations for homes near the canyon along Montezuma Road, which has been closed in both directions.

Around 2 p.m., an NBC 7 photojournalist reported that several structures were threatened by the blaze, with firefighters actively working to protect properties along Lila Street and Lorraine Drive. Authorities were going door-to-door on Lucille, Lila, and 49th streets to warn residents about the need to evacuate.

Hardy Elementary School, located at 5420 Montezuma Rd, was also evacuated. Students were transported to Viejas Arena, and parents were advised to avoid College Avenue while picking up their children. In addition to Montezuma Road, northbound Fairmount Avenue leading to eastbound Montezuma was closed.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but initial reports suggest it may have started in a palm tree. The incident occurred shortly after another fire in Spring Valley earlier that afternoon, which also necessitated some evacuations.

Meteorologist Francella Perez from NBC 7 highlighted that the fire was generating its own wind due to its movement up a canyon. Fortunately, wind speeds were favorable for firefighting efforts at around 5 mph, with no Santa Ana winds to amplify the blaze. However, the low humidity levels in the 20 to 30 percent range posed additional challenges.