SANTA BARBARA, CA – A massive, human-caused wildfire on Santa Rosa Island has scorched more than 10,000 acres, destroyed historic park structures, and forced emergency evacuations.
Historic Landmark Losses
The National Park Service (NWS) confirmed Sunday that the fast-moving flames have destroyed two historic structures: Johnson’s Lee Equipment Shed and the Wreck Line Camp Cabin. A third storage structure was also lost.
The fire is currently burning through rugged, remote terrain on the southeastern end of the island within the Channel Islands National Park.
Evacuations And Dramatic Rescues
The fire has prompted an urgent emergency response:
- Helicopter Evacuation: Eleven Park Service employees were airlifted off the island Sunday by the Santa Barbara County Fire Department after the flames directly threatened their housing.
- Coast Guard Rescue: The U.S. Coast Guard successfully rescued a 67-year-old man from the island on Friday morning as the blaze first intensified.
Current Fire Status
As of Sunday evening, Cal Fire reported the blaze at 10,025 acres with zero containment. The east side of the fire has reached East Point Road, while the western flank has slowed near the South Point Lighthouse. The current condition of the lighthouse remains unknown.
Officials expect the fire to push northward on Monday as local weather and wind patterns change.
Investigation and Containment Efforts
Around 70 personnel are currently battling the blaze on the ground. More crews are expected to arrive by boat on Monday as sea and wind conditions improve.
While the exact source of the ignition remains under investigation, federal officials have officially determined that the wildfire was human-caused.
