Firefighters deployed to extinguish the Thomas Fire across southern California are struggling in making further development. The contained area is nailed at 92 percent, and authorities are worried about the possibility of debris flows, flooding, downed trees, and slides.
California fire crews made momentum in the last week of 2017 and managed to contain 92 percent of the 281,893-acre wildfire on Dec. 31, 2017. Authorities and firefighters have ordered an evacuation for people residing near the affected area in the Santa Barbara County due to rainstorm warnings.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection warned residents to be cautious all the time with rainfall predicted. "Heavy rain is many burned areas. Intense heat can bake the soil and make it hard for water to soak into the ground causing increased risk of flooding, debris flows and downed trees. Please remain aware of your surroundings and listen for unusual sounds," Cal Fire tweeted.
The Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue rolled out with the evacuation orders to ensure all affected residents are out of their homes and are safe. The Search and Rescue department are worried about potential flooding and mudslides in the area. During an interview with KSBY, SBCSAR Commander Nelson Trichler said, "We go to every single door. It can happen instantaneously, it can generate speed anywhere from 20-to-50 miles per hour coming down a canyon. The time to reach is very short. If there is a lot of power, it can easily destroy a house in a matter of seconds if debris hits it."
Residents and travelers are encouraged not to ignore warning signs for flooded roads to ensure the safety of everyone.
Thomas Fire continues to stay active with one week of 2018 gone. Previous reports speculated that the wildfire will be fully extinguished by Jan. 7 or last Sunday.
