Wildfire Forces Evacuation on Santa Rosa Island
A Santa Barbara County Fire Department helicopter evacuated 11 National Park Service employees from Santa Rosa Island as a wildfire, attributed to human activity, spread over 10,000 acres. The fire threatened to cut off employee housing on the island.
The Santa Barbara County Fire Department stated that Helicopter 964 conducted a successful rescue, transporting the personnel to Oxnard Airport without injuries. The operation prioritized the safety of the park staff as the fire advanced.
Efforts to contain the wind-driven blaze on Channel Islands National Park continued, but as of Sunday evening, the fire remained uncontained and had destroyed two structures, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The fire burned between Ford Point and South Point, covering approximately 10,025 acres by Sunday afternoon, according to Cal Fire reports. The National Park Service indicated the fire was human-caused and an investigation is ongoing.
Smoke from the fire has reached the California coast. The National Weather Service in San Diego noted impacts on air quality expected early in the week. Residents are advised to stay informed on air quality through AirNow.
Ecologically, the fire endangers rare native plants and animals on Santa Rosa Island, which is part of the Channel Islands. Species at risk include six plant varieties unique to the island, and wildlife such as island foxes, spotted skunks, and elephant seals.
About 70 firefighters and park rangers are actively engaged in battling the fire, with the island being closed to visitors during suppression efforts. At approximately 26 miles off Santa Barbara, Santa Rosa Island remains a priority as containment strategies continue.
Eric Mack, a writer for Fox News Digital, provided this report on the breaking news.