A specially equipped MH-60S Seahawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 85 launches from Naval Air Station North Island to conduct operations supporting the California Department of Forestry's efforts in combating the San Diego wildfires. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Ahron Arendes) Navy firefighting efforts in support of CalFire (California Department of Forestry) continued into their second day for ground crews battling the Witch and Harris Ranch Fires in San Diego County Oct. 22, while Navy firefighting helicopters from Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 85 based at North Island Naval Air Station began flying missions today once requested by CalFire.
As firefighting efforts continued, many of the 165,000 Navy, Navy civilian and family members that live in San Diego County became subject to evacuation orders as Santa Ana wind conditions drove eight separate fires across the county.
All Navy personnel were directed to muster through their parent commands and online at: https://twms.nmci.navy.mil/emuster/.
Additionally, a hotline number for evacuation housing referrals and general assistance was established at: 619-556-9399.
Key and essential personnel including all Naval Medical Center San Diego personnel should report for duty as directed by their respective commands.
Emergency shelter and evacuation centers for military personnel are available at Naval Base San Diego Prout Field House (Dry Side of Naval Base SD), and at Naval Base Coronado.