Evacuation orders lifted in Santa Barbara County
SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. – Evacuation orders have been lifted for Santa Barbara County.
On Wednesday, county officials announced evacuation orders for areas within the Thomas Fire, Alisal Fire and Cave Fire burn scars at a press conference amid an anticipated heavy rainstorm.
The county said that the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, in coordination with fire agencies and other public safety officials, decided to lift the evacuations at 9:30 a.m.
Kelsey Gerckens, spokesperson for the county, said "While we are able to allow residents to return home, we remind everyone that this was a serious storm that caused impacts across the County. Please be aware of loose and falling rocks, minor landslides, wet road conditions, down trees and lines."
Refugio Road and Highway 154 are still both closed as of Thursday morning with no estimate on reopening, according to Gerckens.
Gerckens advised that residents who were asked to evacuate stay vigilant and continue monitoring the weather, as another storm is expected for early next week.
Response crews are currently working to clean up and repair areas affected by the overnight storm throughout the county.
The county asks that residents take caution on the roads as they remain slick and may contain debris and flooding.
"We understand that evacuation orders are burdensome and we appreciate the community’s cooperation in following the guidance to leave yesterday before the more intense rain," said Gerckens.
Gerckens also noted that the evacuation center at Wake Center will be closed, and if there are questions concerning animal sheltering, please call 805-681-4332.
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