Wildfire — Santa Barbara County South Coast, California

2008-11-13 to 2008-11-17 · Santa Barbara County South Coast, California

Event narrative

The Tea Fire burned 1,940 acres of land in the foothills of the Santa Ynez mountains near the community of Montecito. The fire ignited when strong north winds, gusting to 72 mph, blew some embers from a bonfire started by several individuals. The winds spread the fire very quickly, consuming most of its acreage in one burn period. The fire destroyed approximately 210 residences and severely damaged 9 others. Westmont College in the foothills of Montecito experienced significant destruction, including the Physics building and numerous staff housing. Initial property damage estimates are not available at this time.

Wider weather episode

An extended period of offshore winds affected Southern California. North to northeast wind gusts in excess of 65 MPH were reported in some areas. The strong winds, combined with very dry conditions, helped fuel two significant wildfires. The Tea Fire, near Montecito in Santa Barbara county, burned 1,940 acres. The Sayre Fire, north of Sylmar in Los Angeles county, burned 11,262 acres. Both fires produced significant loss of residences.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 141546. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.