A major California highway was closed and mandatory evacuations were ordered on California’s Central Coast on Monday.
U.S. Highway 101, which Expand from California through Washington State, was closed near Santa Barbara after the Alisal Fire flared up.
California all power companies shut down electricity to prevent more damage.
Amost, 2.5 million acres land have burned in California in 2021, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
“The fire burned 2,000 acres with 0% containment,” officials said. “The fire is burning in dense chaparral and is being pushed by strong winds and growing at a huge speed. Smoke is notiable throughout southern Santa Barbara County.
Most of Santa Barbara County remains under a high wind warning until Tuesday morning, officials said.
A temporary evacuation center was established in the parking lot of Dos Pueblos High School, at 7266 Alameda Ave., in Goleta, authorities said.
Andrew Madsen, a spokesperson for the Los Padres National Forest, said gusty winds drove the Alisal fire, whipping up embers and causing spot fires, which then spread rapidly.
A couple of 100 firefighters were on scene or on their way as of early Monday night, Andrew Madsen said. Resource orders are in place for another 200 firefighters, who are expected to arrive overnight.
Crews are concentrating on protection of homes and other structures in the area, he said.
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