10/08/2026
We all know this powerlink poses great fire danger for those living in the backcountry as well as our surrounding communities. Below is info from Save Palomar Mountain Task Force.....
SDG&E has argued that fire suppression is not affected by 190 foot towers. While we have trouble getting official statements, a highly placed knowledgeable source (an Aviation Battalion Chief and one of our ATGS - Air Attack Group Supervisors) wrote:
“Energized transmission lines and other aerial obstructions directly influence how and where aircraft can safely operate. Retardant and water drops must be adjusted or limited when high‑voltage infrastructure is present. Steep terrain, wind, smoke, and overall weather conditions also have a significant impact on aviation operations and the ability to conduct effective aerial firefighting. In narrow canyons, steep terrain, these combined factors can reduce the availability of low‑level aerial suppression. While this may affect drop placement in certain terrain features, maintaining pilot and public safety remains the determining factor in every operational decision.”
This effectively paralyzes evacuation corridor defense: “Under standard CAL FIRE aviation safety protocols, aerial drops are suspended or pushed miles away from energized high-voltage transmission lines. In narrow backcountry bottlenecks—including San Felipe Pass, Warner Springs, and Pauma Valley—an overhead corridor effectively eliminates aerial fire suppression precisely where ground evacuations along Highway 78 and Highway 76 are most vulnerable.”
