Jesusita Fire threatens homes in Santa Barbara County

The fire season has started in California, with a brush fire dubbed the “Jesusita Fire” threatening homes in Santa Barbara County, on the outskirts of Los Angeles.

The fire broke out in the San Roque Canyon/ Cathedral Peak area at 1:45 p.m local time and spread quickly due to high winds in the area.

A mandatory evacuation order was issued for all locations north of Foothill Road (Highway 192) east of Ontare Road and Morada Lane, and west of El Cielito Road/Gibraltar Road to East Camino Cielo. All residents of San Roque Canyon and Mission Canyon have been evacuated, approximately 1,200 homes.

No damage to homes has reported, and firefighters are battling the blaze with both aircraft and ground crews. Further warm weather and high winds are forecast, hampering efforts to control the blaze.

More if we have it.

(image credit: LA Times)