Edhat Staff
Firefighters combated multiple spot fires along a stretch of Highway 101 northbound between Farren Road and Buellton around 4:50 p.m. on Wednesday. Crews from Santa Barbara County Fire, STB, MTO, LPF, and State Parks were swiftly deployed to manage the situation.
The incidents, initially sparking concern due to their proximity to a major transportation artery, were located along the Gaviota Coast, adjacent to Highway 101. Reports indicate that a total of four spot fires were identified, covering an area of less than five acres.
Given the potential for escalation, an Incident Commander was on scene and made the strategic decision to cancel the deployment of all fixed-wing aircraft initially called to assist. This decision was made as the efforts on the ground proved effective, with firefighters focusing on mopping up remaining hot spots to prevent further spread.
Adding aerial support, Santa Barbara County Air Support Unit helicopter 964 played a critical role in addressing the remaining hot spots within the fire-affected areas. ASU 964 remained on standby, ready to tackle any further spot fires that might emerge in the vicinity.
The combined efforts of the ground and air response teams quickly brought the situation under control, with no additional resources deemed necessary. The prompt and effective response highlights the preparedness and coordination of the fire service teams in managing wildfire incidents, particularly in areas close to critical infrastructure like Highway 101.
Importantly, despite the potential threat these fires posed, the swift action of the responding units ensured that the impact was minimized, with the total area affected kept under five acres. As of the latest updates, there are no remaining spot fires in the area, allowing traffic on Highway 101 to proceed without significant disruption.
The Santa Barbara County Fire Department has not released information on the cause of the spot fires as investigations continue. Residents and commuters are reminded to stay alert, especially during dry conditions that can increase the risk of wildfires.
Multiple Spot Fire Update: Footage of the incident pic.twitter.com/bvfVjfzYdA
— PIO (@PIOSBCFireInfo) September 19, 2024
There was another series of spot fires along 101 north of the Gaviota tunnel a couple weeks ago, I recall. I hope people who drive the 101 between Goleta and Buellton regularly keep an eye out for suspicious behavior. Seems like someone is trying hard to start a fire. Arson is no joke.
Probably caused by a chain dragging from a truck. I used to be a Wildland Fire Dispatcher and that was usually the cause of multiple fires along roadways. Flat tires riding on their rims is another cause, but usually only for short distances because they pull over quickly. Truck drivers are usually oblivious that they’re dragging a sparking chain though.
Failing catalytic converters spew molten metal – another possible likely cause.
The northbound 101 late afternoon was stop and go. I think it may have been an arsonist because there are no cameras out this Gaviota way. Why were there no incidents in Goleta city??..