Air Tankers Battle Tusil Fire As Wildfire Crosses I-8 Freeway In Southern California

Dramatic aerial and ground footage released by CAL FIRE and San Diego County Fire captured the rapidly growing Tusil Fire burning through southern California on May 19 and 20, 2026.

The video shows massive columns of black and gray smoke rising high above the wildfire as bright orange flames tear through heavy brush and dry vegetation across rugged terrain.

Multiple CAL FIRE air tankers and helicopters can be seen making low passes over the blaze while dropping bright red fire retardant along the fire lines. Firefighters and fire engines were also visible working on the ground as the wildfire spread quickly through the area.

Officials first reported the Tusil Fire at 500 acres with 10 percent containment. A later update confirmed the blaze had expanded to 550 acres while remaining at 10 percent containment.

The footage also shows the fire actively crossing the I-8 Freeway, with visible flames burning on both sides of the highway.

According to the official updates, wind and dry conditions were driving the wildfire as crews continued battling the fast-moving blaze.