San Marcos-Area Blaze Nearly Contained

The smoldering remnants of a nearly 2,000-acre wildfire that destroyed more than three dozen structures in the San Marcos areas during last week's spate of San Diego-area blazes was nearing full containment today, authorities reported.

As of midday, crews had the burn area of the so-called Cocos Fire 93 percent contained, according to Cal Fire. A total of 514 firefighters remained on the lines, equipped with 21 fire engines, three water trucks and a bulldozer.

The cost of fighting the non-injury blaze has reached about $6.2 million, officials said.

The fire destroyed 36 homes and a commercial building after erupting late Wednesday afternoon near Cocos Drive, just south of Cal State San Marcos. The cause is under investigation.

All evacuation orders for affected neighborhoods were lifted by Sunday, though those returning to their homes were urged to use caution due to continuing firefighting activity in the area.

—City News Service