Update on Jesusita Fire

As at 5am this morning, the Jesusita Fire in Santa Barbara has destroyed more than 75 homes, burned through 2,750 acres, and compelled evacuation of more than 23,000 residents in a town of barely 90,000 people. The fire is about 10% contained and it has gained strength as it crested the Santa Ynez mountains to start feeding on the lush preserves of the Los Padres national forest. The rapidly expanding flames threaten 3500 homes and about 100 commercial structures and the brave firefighters battling the flame are beginning to suffer significant debilitation from the smoke and fury of the blaze.

Photograph: The Jesusita Fire Night 2: Big Flare Up in Rattlesnake Canyon, by Almost Native Son