Thomas Fire: 230,500 Acres
The Thomas Fire had a “change of behavior” last night, growing to approximately 230,500 acres. Winds were calmer than anticipated, however, evacuations continue to be in place for parts of Carpinteria, Summerland and Montecito.
- Thomas Fire details:
- The fire has consumed approximately 230,500 acres
- 15% contained
- A Red Flag warning remains in effect for the rest of today
- 94,607 residents are under mandatory evacuation orders with another 30,000 under evacuation warning
- New mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders have been issued for parts of Carpinteria, Summerland, Montecito and the unincorporated areas of Santa Barbara County.
- Intermittent power outages may continue throughout the day and possibly into tomorrow
- 6,397 firefighters plus multiple aircraft are on the fire
- Schools are closed throughout the area until January 2
- Emergency generators remain “locked on” for the hospital. We received diesel refueling yesterday and will receive further refueling today.
- As a reminder, the hospital has air filtration systems that filter out air particulates so there is no need to wear a mask while in the buildings. Unfortunately we are unable to eliminate the smell of smoke.
- Employee Health recommendations to help with the effects of smoke outside the buildings:
- Drink plenty of water
- The use throat lozenges can help with a scratchy throat
- The use of eye drops can help with stinging
- Free N95 masks available at several locations in Santa Barbara County, made possible by the coordinated effort of the Santa Barbara Medical Reserve Corps, City of Carpinteria CERT, City of Lompoc CERT, Santa Barbara County Public Health Department, CAL OES, and Direct Relief:
- CMNH partner COSTCO, Goleta
- Franklin Community Center, Santa Barbara (Eastside)
- Santa Barbara Public Library, Santa Barbara
- Albertson’s, Carpinteria
- N95 masks available for purchase:
- CMNH partner Santa Barbara Home Improvement Center, Santa Barbara
- The Home Depot, Lompoc