Santa Rosa Island Evacuation Due to Human-Caused Wildfire

On Sunday, a helicopter from the Santa Barbara County Fire Department evacuated 11 National Park Service employees from Santa Rosa Island. A human-caused wildfire had spread across more than 10,000 acres, threatening employee housing.

Successful Rescue Operation

The fire department shared details on social media, noting that Helicopter 964 completed the evacuation successfully. The helicopter transported the personnel from their threatened housing to Oxnard Airport. Thankfully, no injuries were reported during the operation.

“Helicopter Rescue – Helicopter 964 successfully evacuated 11 National Park Service employees from Santa Rosa Island today amid the ongoing vegetation fire,” SBC Fire wrote. “The crew safely transported all personnel from employee housing – threatened with being cut off by the fire – to Oxnard Airport, with no injuries reported.”

Fire Status and Impact

The wind-driven blaze on Channel Islands National Park island destroyed two structures and was 0% contained by Sunday evening. According to Cal Fire, the fire burned over 10,025 acres between Ford Point and South Point on Santa Rosa Island.

The fire was reported as human-caused and is currently under investigation by the National Park Service.

Smoke from this wildfire is affecting air quality along the California coast. The National Weather Service in San Diego warned locals about increased smoke levels until Tuesday. They advised monitoring air quality via airnow.gov.

Ecological Threats

Santa Rosa Island is home to various unique species and ecological systems. The fire poses a threat to six plant species endemic to the island. The area also supports wildlife such as island foxes, spotted skunks, and elephant seals.

Efforts and Island Closures

As reported, around 70 firefighters and park rangers battled the wildfire Sunday night. The island, situated about 26 miles off Santa Barbara, is closed to visitors this week for ongoing suppression efforts.