UPDATE 1 – MAY 20, 2021 – 2300 PT
Incident Summary
An out-of-area wildfire is burning in the 600 block of West Ortega Street. This area is known as TV Tower Hill, where many news stations and other vast amounts of buildings reside.
One news station has been evacuated.
The fire broke out before 2100 hours PT from an unknown cause.
Both Fire, Police and 911 Dispatch Centers are overwhelmed with calls and heavy traffic volumes, while some areas are impacted by some interfering with fire suppression efforts.
Fire Status
Fire behavior is very active with a high rate of spread, wind-driven and uphill runs. Currently, the fire has destroyed 20 acres and there is a 0% containment status.
Multiple commercial and residential structures are currently threatened. Crews are working tirelessly to save structures.
Divisions
Mike – E74, 77, 76, County 19, 313, one other engine.
Zulu – B19, 315, 11, 91, 92, Car 52.
Groups
Structure Protection Group – 534 – 550, 634 – 630 Miramonte houses. Rigs handling structure protection.
Staging – located at a nearby church.
Command Staff
Safety – B95 assumed Safety (2230 PT)
Fire Prevention Officers 74 and 75.
Incident Command Post – Moved to the McKinley School due to fire encroaching on their post. They were evacuated safely from the area.
Evacuations for…..
- Loma Alta Drive and Miramonte Drive
- 900 block of Miramonte Drive to Weldon Road
- Isleta Avenue
- Arroyo Avenue
- Weldon Road
- Loma Alta Drive from Andres to Weldon Road
Fire Response
Fire personnel and equipment are en route, on-scene and/or on order.
Incident Cooperators
Santa Barbara (City and County), CAL Fire, San Bernardino City and County Departments. Santa Barbara Police.
Public Health
- Wear a mask if in the smoke, cloth masks may not work.
- Stay indoors if you are in a safe place.
Updates
More updates will be posted as more information comes to light.
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