Roads blocked after power lines go down in Santa Barbara

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Several roads were blocked in Downtown Santa Barbara Monday afternoon after power lines were knocked down.

City firefighters responded to the area of E. Los Olivos Street and Santa Barbara Street just before 4 p.m.

A captain at the scene told NewsChannel 3 that some branches from a nearby palm had broken off and hit the power lines.

They said they saw some smoldering on the lines when they arrived.

SoCal Edison crews were called to the scene to determine if the lines were still active.

Santa Barbara police were also called to temporarily close the roads in the area for public safety.

SoCal Edison's website initially reported about 150 homes had lost power, however, by Monday night they had updated it to 1,136 homes in the area of Los Olivos, Mission, Chapala and Quinto streets without power. No estimated restoration time was available.

An SCE Spokesperson provided the following guidance for downed lines, "During a power outage our top priority is your safety. Most importantly, stay away from downed power lines. Stormy weather can cause power lines to fall, creating hazards by electrifying puddles, wet grass, and the surrounding area. If you see a downed power line, do not touch it. Call 911 immediately."

Cleanup will continue into the evening. Drivers are advised to avoid the area.