SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — As wildfires rage in Los Angeles County and gusty Santa Anas sweep the region, residents near Lake Hodges say the scene is all too familiar.
“We’re all a little bit on edge as you can tell. The winds you’re feeling today are very similar to the winds that brought the fire down from Ramona and brought it through Lake Hodges,” said Robert Dudley, a resident near the lake.
Dudley has lived in the area for more than 40 years and said the 2007 Witch Creek Fire is the worst he’s ever seen.
“The fire came completely around my house. Burned within 5 feet,” said Dudley.
“The fire got within 40 feet of my daughter’s bedroom…super scary,” added John Anshus, a resident near Lake Hodges.
They’re concerned about the possibility of the next wildfire and are pleading with local leaders to increase water levels at Lake Hodges, hoping it will reduce dry brush and fire risk in the area.
