5,866-Acre Brush Fire Continues To Burn In Santa Barbara County
GOLETA (CBSLA.com) — A massive brush fire burning in Santa Barbara County has now consumed 5,866 acres and is at 20 percent containment, officials said Friday.
According to Santa Barbara County Fire officials, the wind-driven Sherpa Fire continues to burn within steep and rugged terrain in Refugio Canyon, located about a quarter-mile away from the 101 Freeway.
CBS2's Jasmine Viel reported firefighters do not expect to fully extinguish the blaze until Wednesday.
To date, the fire has threatened at least 270 homes and destroyed a water plant in El Capitan Beach.
The fire broke out around 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at the top of Refugio Road, which is located near Scherpa Ranch.
Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for El Capitan Canyon, El Capitan Ranch, El Capitan State Beach, Refugio State Beach, Refugio Canyon, Canada de la Destiladera, Venadito Canyon and Las Flores Canyon.
The American Red Cross has opened two shelters to assist displaced residents. The shelters are located at 300 North Turnpike Road and 2975 East Highway 246.
One minor injury has been reported.
Residents have been urged to monitor the status of the fire on the County of Santa Barbara website.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The following email has been created as a helpline for farmers and ranchers impacted by the Sherpa Fire: sherpaag@co.santa-barbara.ca.us
Animals will no longer be taken to Earl Warren Showgrounds. Anyone needing assistance with animals should call (805) 681-4332 #SherpaFire
— Santa Barbara County (@countyofsb) June 18, 2016
"While much of the smoke from the distant fire is dispersed and remains aloft, smoke may affect communities across the South Coast Air Basin at times," officials said.
"The smoke is not currently causing significant air quality concerns for the basin, but increased haze can be seen."
A press conference will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday at Dos Pueblos High School to provide an update on the status of the Sherpa Fire.
