Edhat StaffUpdate by Caltrans
12:28 p.m., July 17, 2017
State Route 154 is now open to motorists following a closure due to a brush fire. Motorists can now travel unrestricted between US Highway 101 near Los Olivos and US Highway 101 in Santa Barbara.
Motorists traveling the length of State Route 154 should be aware of the movement of fire trucks and other emergency equipment being transported in support of the fire suppression efforts. Motorists should adhere to safe driving practices and allow for the safe passage of emergency vehicles traveling along and to/from State Route 154 in support of this incident.
Source: Santa Barbara County
5:00 p.m., July 16, 2017
After eight days of closure due to the Whittier Fire, the Highway 154 corridor is now open. The highway was closed Sunday, July 8, after the Whittier Fire erupted near Lake Cachuma and burned on both sides of the highway.
Firefighters have spent several days mopping-up hot spots and removing hazards such as rocks and fire-damaged trees. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) both mobilized quickly and have completed necessary repairs to the roadway and power lines.
Effective immediately the following closure has been lifted:
- Highway 154, from Cathedral Oaks Roadon the east side, to Armour Ranch Road on the west
The following Evacuation Orders have beenreduced to an Evacuation Warning:
- Paradise Road, from Highway 154 to the first river crossing.
- Cachuma Village
The following Evacuation Orders remain valid:
- West Camino Cielo at Highway 154 to Winchester Gun Club and Kinevan Road
- Rosario Park and all of Stagecoach Road
- All of Winchester Canyon Road excluding the community of Wagon Wheel, Langlo Ranch Road and Winchester Commons, west to El Capitan Ranch Road
- Calle Real north to West Camino Cielo, from Winchester Canyon Road on the east to El Capitan Ranch Road on the west. This includes all roads and trails within the area of the order
Motorists travelling in the area are urged to drive with caution, focus on the roadway and not pull over along the shoulder to view the fire area. CHP and other law enforcement agencies are patrolling the area to protect the safety of motorists and fire personnel working near the highway.
The Whittier Fire will continue to smolder for some time. These “smokers” are well inside the perimeter of the burn and do not pose a threat to the fireline.
Area residents who need assistance returning large animals to their properties are requested to call the Animal Services Hotline: (805) 681-4332.
