The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuations in anticipation of what Sheriff Bill Brown is describing as, “potentially the strongest storm of the season.” Brown and Montecito Fire Division Chief Kevin Taylor held a press conference earlier today to inform and warn residents of the impending storms. Rain is expected to begin by 8 p.m. tonight with peak rainfall expected between 6 and 11 a.m. at a rate of one-half to one-and-a-quarter inches per hour.
Strong winds from the south are expected to accompany the storm and are of further concern. Winds of 40-60 mph are expected with rates of up to 80 mph in the mountains. The winds will push the storm toward the Thomas, Sherpa, and Whittier burn areas and squeeze more rain from the clouds as they rise up the mountains. High winds may also contribute to power outages and downed trees.
The intensity of the storm contain a potential for debris flow and a high risk to life and property, said Sheriff Brown. Around 75 deputies and Search and Rescue volunteers have been going door to door since 1 p.m today to enforce the evacuation order. Residents are expected to be out of the area by 8 p.m. Sheriff Brown emphasized that the evacuation order is not issued lightly. “We are very aware there is a tremendous impact to the community,” said Brown, who assured he would get residents back into their homes as soon as possible. “We will not keep you away from homes for longer than is necessary,” he said. Brown and emergency managers will reevaluate the evacuation order tomorrow after the first big storm, but a second storm is expected to follow on Saturday and Sunday. Evacuees should prepare to be out at least two nights, said Sheriff Brown.