Evacuations Ordered for Parts of Montecito as Thomas Fire Rages West
Strong Overnight Winds Pushed the Blaze Further West; Carpinteria Buildings Threatened and Burned
[Update: Sunday, 1:35 p.m.] Firefighters are battling the Thomas Fire in the mountains above Carpinteria today, as the nearly week-old wildfire rages west toward Montecito. The morning attack saved numerous homes in the Shepard Mesa area, although at least one structure was destroyed. Dozer lines are being cut and helicopter drops are constant at the moment.
The fire is also burning on the backside of the mountains in the Santa Ynez River drainage, pushing west of Jameson Lake. It is slowing down a bit on the eastern edge near Ojai and Santa Paula.
The mandatory evacuation order has been extended to Hot Springs road, north of Highway 192, running east to the county line. The voluntary evacuation warning now includes parts of Mission Canyon and the Riviera of Santa Barbara. (See the latest order here.)
