Edhat Staff
Update by the edhat staff
October 1, 2024
As of Tuesday, the Ridge Fire is 100% contained at 16.9 acres, according to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.
Update by the edhat staff
September 30, 2024
The Evacuation Warning issued for the Ridge Fire in the area of Alegria Canyon/Hollister Ranch in Gaviota has been CANCELLED as of noon on Monday.
The Sheriff’s Office urges residents to take caution if returning home as emergency personnel continue working in the area and to remain vigilant of changing conditions
As of 6:30 p.m. Monday, the Santa Barbara County Fire Department reports the fire is 75% contained and holding at just under 17 acres.
Evacuation Warning Issued as Ridge Fire Burns in Gaviota, Arson Suspect Arrested
By the edhat staff
September 29, 2024
In an urgent response to the escalating Ridge Fire, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office has mandated an evacuation warning for residents in the Alegria Canyon and Hollister Ranch areas of Gaviota as of 2:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Authorities are advising the community to be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice, emphasizing the importance of readiness for families, pets, and securing essential items. Officials indicated that those feeling threatened should not hesitate to evacuate immediately, prioritizing individuals with disabilities, functional needs, and those with large animals.
This precautionary measure comes in the wake of a significant update at 4:00 p.m. Sunday when Santa Barbara County Fire Department investigators announced the arrest of an adult male suspected of arson in connection to the Ridge Fire. The investigation is ongoing and more details have yet to be released.
As of 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Fire Captain Scott Safechuck reported the Ridge Fire to be 10% contained at 16.9 acres in size.
The deployment of air and helicopter support has been critical, with an additional helicopter called into action to combat the flames.
Initial reports of the Ridge Fire emerged at around 10:15 p.m. on Saturday, with Captain Safechuck disclosing the fire’s origin in the Hollister Ridge area, initially spanning approximately 3 acres with a slow rate of spread. The fire’s progression has been challenging for firefighting teams, attributed to its location in a remote and inaccessible area, alongside foggy conditions limiting visibility and operational efficiency.
For those concerned about small and large animal safety, the Santa Barbara County Animal Services Disaster Line at 805-681-4332 and the Santa Barbara Equine Evacuation Team at 805-892-4484 are available for assistance and inquiries.
The community is urged to stay informed through official channels and respect emergency line protocols by dialing 911 only in genuine emergency situations.
This developing story underscores the unpredictable nature of wildfires and the critical importance of preparedness and compliance with evacuation warnings. Further updates on the Ridge Fire’s containment and the ongoing investigation into the arson allegation will follow as more information becomes available.
#RidgeFire Update Video: SBC ASU Copt. 964 pic.twitter.com/KblM5DCjYF
— Scott Safechuck (@SBCFireInfo) September 29, 2024
What’s His name!? When that information becomes available, especially if he’s a “local”, we should know!
I’m willing to bet this same person is responsible for all the spot fires on 101 and tepesquet in the last few weeks. Someone left a campfire unattended yesterday at Davy Brown campground (per scanner). I like people less and less all the time and Orcas more and more
Mechanism for the forest rejuvenating itself
RUBY. Sigh….. please read the articles. This was not the “forest rejuvenating itself,” it was suspected arson. That means a person may have done this intentionally. Is that still a good thing in your mind? Are you really condoning arson? Honestly, I guess I wouldn’t be surprised.
Regardless of the source of ignition, be it arson, lightening, an accident, a catalytic converter, a camp fire – the forest is benefited with regeneration. Do you think regeneration depends on the source?
RUBY – I think “regeneration” of actual forests (this area is not one) can be a good thing when done naturally as needed.
Setting fires to ranch land that can destroy wildlife, homes and take peoples’ lives is not a “benefit.”
You should really stop encouraging criminal activity.
Lightening??? That happens most mornings.
Since you’re still shoveling horse manure, perhaps you should look into what happens when very hot fires, like, you know, grass fires, essentially sterilize the ground. Seeds of the native plants are killed, paving the way for invasive plants.
In rube’s world, an oil spill or nuclear blast would also qualify.
*shivering* YIKES! Just tried to imagine spending even a second in “rube’s world” lol!