United States: Wildfire causes new evacuations Dec. 16 /update 12

Event

California officials issued new evacuation order on Saturday, December 16, as a major forest fire - named the Thomas Fire - continues to rage in southern California. Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for around Montecito and Summerland. Parts of the city of Santa Barbara are also under mandatory evacuation. According to officials, winds have dropped to around 48 km/h (30 mph) with gusts up to 97 km/h (60 mph). The blaze is only about 40 percent contained and is covering about 1046 km² (404 mi²) as of the afternoon (local time) of December 16.

The fire has become the third largest fire in California's history. Various other smaller fires are also burning in the state. Traffic disruptions, power outages, and school closures are expected to persist in the affected areas in the coming days.

Context

Southern California generally experiences its worst wildfires between October and December, due to the increased strength of the Santa Ana winds. Rugged terrain and dry conditions - which have been exacerbated by years of drought - render it particularly difficult to contain fires in the region once they have broken out.

Advice

Individuals in California are advised to exercise caution when traveling in areas affected by the wildfires, adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and monitor the situation.