San Diego

FEMA Aid Available For Residents Impacted By Lilac Fire

The disaster recovery center can assist North County San Diegans affected by the Lilac Fire apply for FEMA disaster relief or apply for a federal disaster loan

Two disaster recovery centers have been opened in Fallbrook to help victims of the Lilac Fire in North County apply for federal aid and obtain federal disaster loans.

More than 100 homes were destroyed or damaged by the 4,100-acre Lilac Fire that broke out along Interstate 15 near Bonsall on Dec. 7, 2017. The fire devastated the rural North County community known for its farms and ranches. 

To assist North County San Diegans affected by Lilac Fire, the United States Small Business Association (SBA) has opened a recovery center at the Rancho Monserate Community Center at 4650 Dulin Road in Fallbrook. The facility is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The SBA is providing federal assistance loans to both homeowners and businesses affected; Homeowners can receive up to $200,000 and businesses can receive up to $2 million respectively. 

For more information on the types of loans available, visit here

A second facility has been opened at the Bonsall Community Center on Old River Road operated by FEMA and the state's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OIS). The facility is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

The Lilac Fire ripped through brush and consumed homes in Bonsall. NBC 7 reports.

Residents whose property was affected must register with FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Phone lines are open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

FEMA encourages residents to apply before visiting a disaster resource facility, but one-on-one registration assistance can be provided.

FEMA is accepting applications for all Southern California residents who suffered damage or losses from the recent wildfires and flooding, mudslides, and debris flow. This includes residents of Santa Barbara, Ventura, Los Angeles and San Diego counties.

Applications must be submitted by March 16. 

As the Lilac Fire grew off SR-76 and I-I-15, horses on one property fled the flames. The troubling moments were caught live on NBC 7.

FEMA asks applicants to provide their Social Security number, address, and phone number, description of the damage, insurance coverage information and a bank account or routing numbers for direct deposit of funds.

FEMA suggests residents register even if they have insurance.

For more details on how to register visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4353.

As the Lilac Fire grew off SR-76 and I-15 in San Diego's North County, drivers fled the smoke and flames.
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