HispanicBusiness

What started as a brushfire in the hills near Santa Barbara, California, has erupted into a fire through the Montecito hills that covers hundreds of acres. Residents of Montecito and, increasingly, Santa Barbara are being put on notice of possible danger. One thing's for certain: it will be a long night for area firefighters and an even longer night for the estimated 12 or more families that have already lost homes.

The so-called "Tea Fire" started around 6 p.m., and city residents quickly reported thick smoke and a fire smell from more than 5 miles away. The strong moon's red glow over the night sky was readily apparent once the sun went down, especially to those residents who lost power due to reported line damage. While most power seems to have been restored at the time of this posting (approx. 9:30 Pacific Time), areas near the Riviera section of the city were still reporting sporadic access. Powerful wind gusts are being blamed for the fire's quick spread.

As of 10:40, television stations are reporting that the fire has reached Alameda Padre Serra (APS) and is still on the move. Residents should err on the side of caution and prepare for possible evacuation, even if not at the mandatory stage, and stay aware of the fire's progress. HispanicBusiness.com will provide an update in the morning; for now we advise Santa Barbara residents to tune in to local television and radio stations or visit KEYT.com, all of which are staying on top of the story. For official messages from the Montecito Fire Dept., including evacuation updates, visit http://www.montecitofire.com/.

KEYT television is conservatively reporting more than 400 acres and 12 homes affected. Affected residents can seek Red Cross shelter at San Marcos High School (4750 Hollister Avenue, Santa Barbara). Cottage Hospital is prioritizing fire emergency victims. Residents are encouraged to call 211 for more information.

Evacuation updates and orders as of 10:55 Pacific Time are:

EVACUATION ORDERS
North of 192 between Hot Springs Rd and Cheltenham

All of Sycamore Canyon

North of 192 between Sycamore Canyon and Gibraltar Rd

Sycamore Cyn @ Eucalyptus Hill, South to Salinas to 5 Points

EVACUATION WARNINGS
South of 192 between Hot Springs and Sycamore Canyon