2024 Lake Fire (CALPF)

Wildfire Status:

The 2024 Lake Fire, active since July 5, 2024, has been a significant incident in the Los Padres National Forest, California, where it grew rapidly through grass and brush during an ongoing heat wave. As of the latest reports, approximately 90% of the fire's perimeter has been contained, and crews are currently engaged in suppression repair efforts to restore the affected areas to pre-fire conditions. This includes the construction of water bars on fire lines to mitigate soil erosion and potential debris flow contamination in waterways. The incident is being managed by a type 3 incident management team from the Los Padres National Forest.

In response to the fire, Santa Barbara County has declared a local emergency due to the threat posed to nearby communities, including Santa Ynez and Los Olivos. Although all evacuation orders and warnings were lifted on July 23, 2024, caution is still advised for residents returning home, as emergency personnel remain active in the area. The Los Padres National Forest has also instituted a closure for regions impacted by the fire, which is expected to last until at least August 18, 2024. Roads, trails, and recreational areas within the closure zone are inaccessible, and updates on these restrictions can be found on the Los Padres National Forest website.

Weather conditions have played a critical role in the fire's development, with prolonged heat contributing to its rapid spread. Firefighters are utilizing heavy equipment to push dirt and vegetation back over fire lines, emphasizing the importance of restoring the ecosystem. Given the diverse ecosystems within the Los Padres National Forest, ranging from chaparral to redwood forests, the management strategies are focused on maintaining ecological health while ensuring public safety.

Visit Inciweb Incident Page for more information. Information on this page is provided for informational purposes only.

Containment History:

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