Bar Fire Burning Caused by Bird Coming in Contact With Power Lines
LATEST UPDATE
The Bar Fire was caused by a bird coming in contact with power lines. The official cause was determined by Santa Barbara County fire investigators. Fire Capt. Dave Zaniboni confirmed the news.
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 24, 2016 – 6:50 p.m
Firefighters on scene are reporting that forward progression of the fire has been stopped. The fire is estimated to be 20 acres in size.
Watch video of an air tanker making a drop on the fire below. Video: Mike Eliason/Santa Barbara County Fire Department
VIDEO: Air Tanker Drop on the Bar FireSanta Barbara County Fire Capt. Dave Zaniboni credits a quick and aggressive attack by diverting resources from the Rey Fire and light winds, in firefighters gaining control of the Bar Fire.
The American Red Cross had activated an evacuation center at Santa Ynez High School for residents affected by the Bar Fire. That center is expected to close.
All evacuation orders have been lifted.
A power outage is being reported in the area. An estimated 173 customers have been impacted. Southern California Edison crews are working to restore power.
No structures were lost or damaged. Crews will be out there throughout the night mopping up the fire and any hot spots.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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A 20-acre brush fire has been reported near Refugio Canyon and U.S. Highway 101 Wednesday afternoon.
Resources from the Rey Fire have been diverted to the “Bar Fire,” to battle this blaze.
The Bar Fire broke out at about 4:30 p.m. one mile up Refugio Road in the north side of Highway 101.
The fire is reportedly spreading at a moderate rate in heavy brush. Telephone poles are directly above the fire.
One structure is threatened at this time. An Evacuation Order has been issued for all residents on Refugio Road near Coal Canyon. All large animals evacuated from the Bar Fire can go to Earl Warren Showgrounds.
The Bar Fire is burning in a new area off Venadito Canyon Road. Although its burning close to the Sherpa Fire location, Los Padres National Forest says it’s not in the Sherpa fire scar.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
No further information was immediately known. Check back for continued updates.
