Solimar Fire 70 Percent Contained

Though a couple of spot fires were reported by Ventura County Fire around 3 a.m. this morning, including one headed for the 101 pushed by strong north winds, firefighters from multiple agencies continue to extinguish the remnants of the Solimar Fire, which was started around 11:30 p.m. Christmas night by an arcing powerline. At 1,236 acres, it is 70 percent contained.

Two firefighters are reported to have suffered ankle and knee injuries due to the rocky terrain. Evacuation orders have been lifted for residents; Emma Wood State Beach remains closed. Holiday traffic resumed flowing along Highway 101 to the north and south as of approximately 4 p.m. Saturday.

Windy conditions overnight caused the flare-ups, one within containment lines, but the other charring two acres before firefighters got it under control. Fire agencies from Orange, Los Angeles, Kern, and CalFire have joined Ventura’s on the fire line with 436 total personnel and one helicopter today. Five engines from Santa Barbara County were sent to assist on Saturday, as well as a water tender, engines from Montecito and Carpinteria Fire, and an Air Support helicopter out of Santa Ynez, Capt. Dave Zaniboni stated, a spokesperson for S.B. County Fire.

The National Weather Service predicts 6-12 mph winds through the morning, shifting to weak westerly winds by the afternoon. Drivers through the area are asked to be aware of emergency equipment along the highway.