Fire crews are still working a brush fire that has scorched roughly 400 acres and threatened several homes in Shell Beach and Pismo Beach. The Avila Fire broke out just before 3 o’clock yesterday afternoon. The wind-driven flames forced the evacuations of several homes in Pismo Beach and Shell Beach. The 101 in both directions was closed for a time, forcing commuters to use back roads. Just after 5:30, the fire was reported to be 380 acres. Ground crews and an aggressive air attack has the blaze currently held at 400 acres and 10 percent contained. By 11:30 last night people were allowed to return home. It’s unknown when the flames will be fully contained. An investigation into the cause is underway.
