Smoldering eucalyptus tree concerns firefighters

Emergency crews are at the scene of a half-acre fire that started at the base of a eucalyptus tree at 12th and E streets Saturday afternoon. Cause of the fire is unknown, said Cal Fire Capt. Jose Ramirez with the Ramona Fire Department.

Firefighters have their eyes on the eucalyptus tree, which is smoldering about 50 feet up and also through the ground. They do not plan to leave until they are confident there is no threat of the tree reigniting.

With strong gusty winds and extremely low humidity expected to start Sunday, officials called for a fire weather watch Saturday.

The tree is at least 100 feet tall.

The fire burned up the tree, leaving dead bark along its trail. A house near the tree initially was threatened by the fire, said a witness.