California Wildfire Prompts Expanded Evacuation, Becomes State's Largest Wildfire
California issued increased evacuation warnings and orders Sunday night due to the Lake Fire, which has grown to 20,320 acres and is 8% contained. Mario Tama/Getty Images

Santa Barbara County faced a significant emergency on Sunday, with the Lake Fire becoming California's largest active wildfire.

Starting near Zaca Lake on Friday, it rapidly consumed 18,996 acres of dry land by Sunday evening, with containment efforts stalled at 8%.

In response to the escalating threat, authorities expanded evacuation orders and warnings to protect residents, according to Noozhawk.

New evacuation orders stretched from Figueroa Mountain Road at Junction Camp to Chamberlin Ranch and from Zaca Lake Road at Foxen Canyon Road north to the Sisquoc River.

Additionally, an evacuation warning covered areas north of Calzada Avenue, east of East Oak Trail Road, west of Happy Canyon, and south of the Sisquoc River.

Residents were advised to consult the Santa Barbara County 2024 Lake Fire Incident Map to determine evacuation zones.

The American Red Cross opened a shelter at Solvang Veterans Memorial Hall, offering essential supplies and support for evacuees.

Authorities continued to battle the fire, emphasizing safety precautions and urging vigilance among affected communities as firefighting efforts intensified.

Threat to Neverland Ranch and Surrounding Areas

The Lake Fire posed significant threats to Neverland Ranch near Los Olivos, prompting evacuation orders affecting around 100 residents as the fire moved southeast.

Over 1,000 personnel and air support were deployed, yet containment efforts remained at 8% due to challenging weather and terrain.

By Monday, the fire expanded to over 20,320 acres, maintaining its status as a California wildfire.

Incident Management highlighted Figueroa Mountain Road as a critical concern, with breached containment lines posing risks to populated areas, Santa Barbara Independent reports.

Fire behavior experts warned of volatile conditions at higher elevations, where dry grasses fueled the fire, despite some relief from coastal marine layers at lower altitudes.

Efforts focused on protecting the Woodstock community and preparing for potential further evacuations if conditions worsen, underscoring the ongoing challenges and uncertainties in containing the blaze.

Impact on Local Communities and Infrastructure

The Lake Fire's impact extended beyond evacuation orders, threatening ranches and residential areas near Los Olivos.

Emergency services swiftly responded, urging preparedness and prompt evacuation adherence.

Firefighting efforts, bolstered by teams from across California, aimed to contain the fire and protect vulnerable communities amid fluctuating weather conditions.

While the coastal marine layer offered temporary relief, unpredictable winds posed challenges, The New York Times noted.

Community support, facilitated by the American Red Cross, provided essential services to evacuees.

The ongoing fire underscored California wildfire risks during the state's fire season.

Authorities emphasized public vigilance and adherence to safety protocols as containment efforts continued.

As Santa Barbara County and communities rallied together, resilience and collaborative efforts remained crucial in mitigating further risks and safeguarding lives and properties.

Continuous updates and support for firefighters were pivotal in managing the evolving situation, ensuring community safety amidst the challenges posed by the Lake Fire.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

WATCH: Lake Fire grows to more than 16K acres in Santa Barbara Co., Neverland Ranch among homes threatened - From ABC7 News Bay Area