Mission Fire Response
Multi-Agency Response to Mission Fires in Bonsall and Rainbow
May 2026
Rainbow Water District assisted the North County Fire Protection District and CAL FIRE with mutual aid response to multiple vegetation fires, known as the Mission fires, burning along State Route 76 and northbound I-15 Freeway on Saturday, May 2.
Rainbow Water crews responded swiftly with a water tender to supply fire trucks with water for fires located along State Route 76. Fire protection agencies utilized the Rainbow Water District’s Rapid Aerial Water Supply (RAWS) tank with over 20 water drops to aid in suppressing 26 separate fires that burned across 12 miles from Bonsall to Rainbow. The North County Fire Protection District, CAL FIRE, and several assisting agencies stopped the fire's spread at 20 acres, with no structures destroyed.
“The outcome is a direct reflection of the strength of our mutual and automatic aid system, as well as the dedication of the men and women who serve our communities,” said John Choi, Captain for North County Fire Protection District.
The RAWS tank was installed as a proactive measure following the devastating Lilac Fire in 2017, underscoring the need for an efficient, high-volume, aerial accessible water source in San Diego’s fire-prone areas. This was the second fire incident when RAWS was used by fire agencies, following the Garden Fire in November 2024.
Rainbow Water mitigates the risk of fire ignition around all facilities through regular brush clearance to maintain defensible space and rooftop sprinklers to create a moisture barrier during a wildfire event. These proactive fire prevention measures assisted with protecting a critical piece of Rainbow Water infrastructure after a spot fire ignited adjacent to a pump station.
“Our emergency response training and internal notification systems moved our team into action quickly” said Jake Wiley, Rainbow Water General Manager. “We were proud to bring critical water supply to assist the dozen fire agencies who battled the various fires in our service area.”
This rapid, highly effective response and preparedness highlight the success of joint efforts between public agencies and the vital role of advanced firefighting tools like the RAWS. Through proactive planning and interagency partnerships, Rainbow Water District, North County Fire Protection District, and CAL FIRE remain committed to safeguarding the communities they serve.