The End is Near

Woke up to foggy cool skies this morning again. Whew.

This morning's press release states that only a few homes (140) are still under evacuation. These are the northernmost areas, where the fire is still active.

From the City of Santa Barbara fact sheet this morning:

• 8,733 acres burned
• 55% contained
• Damage assessment in progress – initial estimate of 31 homes destroyed, 47 homes have been damaged and 2 outbuildings destroyed
• Approximately 140 properties evacuated (mandatory evacuation orders); affects approx. 350 people
• More than 3,850 properties under evacuation warning; approx. 9,625 people affected
• Residences threatened – 3,500; commercial properties threatened – 100
• 4,543 personnel on scene: 509 engines, 109 crews
• 5 air tankers and 15 helicopters
• 18 firefighter injuries to date
• Cause under investigation: Tip line – 805-686-5074
• Air quality warning remains in effect
• Estimated costs to date $7.4 million
• Expected containment 5/13/09


Given the ferocity of this fire, it is amazing that only 31 homes were destroyed. We're all so grateful for all the firefighters, law enforcement officers, Red Cross Volunteers, Humane Society and other animal volunteers, radio and print reporters, Emergency Operations people, and all the other people and businesses that pulled together to get us through this.

Now, three times in 10 months.....ENOUGH!