Five brush fires were reported “just north of Refugio,” around 1:35 p.m. on Monday, triggering a “full response” from Santa Barbara County Fire, according to spokesperson Scott Safechuck.
The fires spanned about 10 acres as of 2:30 p.m. the same day, and one lane of traffic on northbound Highway 101 is closed to allow firefighter access, according to radio traffic. Per incident command, the fire was spreading slowly with the potential to reach up to 30 acres. Forward progress was stopped at 2:51 p.m., according to Safechuck.
The cause is unknown at this time.
This is a developing story. Check back for additional details as they become available.