March 28, 2024
Winds deny containment of expanding Thomas Fire
SANTA BARBARA - The third-largest wildfire in California history continues to spread in Santa Barbara County.

The deadly Thomas Fire, which is nearing the two-week mark since it first broke out December 4th, is threatening more homes after already consuming 269,000 acres and costing an estimated $117 million.

The blaze is 40 percent contained and is threatening 18,000 structures as 8,529 firefighters battle the flames. It has already destroyed 1,020 and damaged another 242, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

Two people have been killed as a result of the blaze.
Virginia Pesola, 70, was found dead at a crash site along an evacuation route, killed by blunt force injuries, smoke inhalation and burns.

Cory Iverson, 32, was part of a strike team of San Diego Cal Fire engines who were helping in the firefight. Iverson died Thursday during an accident in an active area of the fire, suffering thermal injuries and smoke inhalation.

In addition to the fatalities, the fire has also forced 104,607 people to flee their homes, according to Cal Fire.

Fires of Interest:

Thomas Fire, Ventura/Santa Barbara County
Santa Paula
• 269,000 acres, 40% contained
• Evacuations and road closures in effect
• 18,000 homes threatened, 95,000 residents evacuated

Lilac Fire, San Diego County *FINAL
Bonsall
• 4,100 acres, 100% contained

Creek Fire, Los Angeles County
Kagel Canyon
• 15,619 acres, 98% contained

Skirball Fire, Los Angeles County *FINAL
North of Brentwood
• 422 acres, 100% contained
Story Date: December 17, 2017
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