Mandatory Evacuation Issued Near Montecito for Brush Fire | News

By David Lee - email

MONTECITO, Calif. - Santa Barbara County Fire, along with multiple agencies are responding to a vegetation fire just above Cold Springs Trail above Montecito.  Montecito Fire has just issued a mandatory evacuation.

Montecito Fire has issued the following: "MANDATORY EVACUATION ARE STILL IN EFFECT: ABOVE (NORTH) of MOUNTAIN DRIVE:  East of Cold Springs - West of Park Ln West."

Montecito Fire is also recommending: "ALSO ADVISORY EVACUATION IS STILL IN EFFECT FOR ABOVE (NORTH) MOUNTAIN DRIVE: East of Park Ln West, West of Buena Vista."

Montecito Fire also says the fire is between 2 and five acres. Officials say three hikers were able to hike safety, and according to reports, were above the head of the fire when it broke out. Santa Barbara County Fire says the fire is burning near some power lines near the trail.

The following agencies are on scene at the fire according to Montecito Fire: "Montecito Fire District, Santa Barbara County Fire, United States Forest Service, Carpinteria/Summerland Fire, Santa Barbara City Fire, Cal FIRE, Vandenberg AFB, Santa Barbara County Sheriff Department, Santa Barbara City Police and CHP."

Santa Barbara County Emergency Management says hand crews are on scene.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.