Evacuation Order Lifted in Santa Barbara County

Water continues to pour out of the mountains near Lake Cachuma, closing the 154 after a culvert became blocked.

[Update: Feb. 4, 2019, 12:30 p.m.]

State highway 154, aka the San Marcos Pass, remains closed due to a blocked culvert near Lake Cachuma, Caltrans reported at noon on Monday. The blockage is 35 feet below the road surface, said Jim Shivers, Caltrans spokesperson, making it difficult to access and clear. Water, mud, and debris continue to wash across the road from the runoff coming out of the Santa Ynez Mountains, which is keeping the road closed. When the 154 will open again is undetermined, Shivers noted.

[Original Story]

The evacuation order for areas below the recent burn scars was lifted as of 9 a.m. this morning. Rain totals were less than anticipated overnight Sunday and are not expected to meet flash flood or debris flow intensities in the series of rains expected through Tuesday.

The 101 reopened Saturday night, but the road over San Marcos Pass, State Route 154, has been closed for culvert repairs, the California Highway Patrol reported, until Sunday evening. Only residents are being allowed in; travelers should use the 101. Many roads remain flooded or muddy, the chance of rock fall is still possible, and creeks are running high. County officials urge caution.

This story will be updated.