Return of the ‘Hope Ranch Volcano’: Smoke plumes spotted rising from seaside cliffs

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. (KEYT) – Large plumes of smoke and a small brush fire were part of a response by fire crews on the seaside cliffs in the Hope Ranch area Thursday.

According to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, the naturally-occurring geological phenomena which vents steam and sulfurous gasses, but isn't a true volcano despite the local name, caused a small smoldering fire in an underground drainage pipe.

Crews were first called to the scene around 10:26 a.m. Thursday for the geological event and were able to extinguish the associated flames later the same afternoon confirmed the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

No structures were directly threatened and residents are asked to avoid the area as crews work to halt the spread of any additional flames added the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

The area is known for the 'Hope Ranch Volcano', as locals sometimes refer to the natural phenomenon, which has emitted smoke and even sparked fires multiple times in the past and is known as a solfatara.

Local residents may see or smell smoke in the area and those with respiratory illness should take caution.