Spring Valley

Fire at Recycling Center Sends Plume of Smoke Over Spring Valley

Several fire engines and crews responded to the fire, which was sending a thick plume of black smoke over Spring Valley

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Crews with San Miguel Fire & Rescue responded Thursday to a fire at a recycling center in the Spring Valley area.

The fire began at the Plaza Alta Recycling Center on Jamacha Road just east of state Route 125 and north of SR-54 at around 1 p.m.

A San Diego County Sheriff's Department spokesperson said the fire was mostly contained to that area. By about 2:20 p.m., the fire appeared to be out.

Several fire engines and crews responded to the blaze, which sent a thick plume of black smoke over Spring Valley. The plume was pushed by strong west winds, which was threatening businesses and an apartment complex, San Miguel Fire said.

At the scene, about half dozen engines were parked along Jamacha Boulevard with fire hoses extending to the recycling center. San Miguel Fire said two aerial water streams and several ground lines were used to temper the flames.

The firefight was dangerous and several compressed gas cylinders exploded. A power line also went down across an outbuilding, making the firefight even more difficult. The powerline was eventually de-energized by San Diego Gas & Electric.

Crews were able to stop the fire before it spread to other buildings.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Department Bomb Arson unit was investigating the cause of the fire.

No injuries were reported.

The San Diego County Department of Public Works said Jamacha Road was closed between Grand Avenue and Presioca Street as crews responded to the fire.

This is a developing story. Please refresh for updates.

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