Potential Increase of Storm Impacts Near Cave Fire Burn Scar

Source: County of Santa Barbara

Due to the burn scar caused by the recent Cave Fire, future storms are a concern for several years until the landscape can successfully revegetate. Because of the Cave Fire burn scar, there is now a heightened risk of flooding and debris flows during winter storms

Currently, Burn Area Emergency Response (BAER) team and Watershed Emergency Response Team (WERT) experts have been requested to compile scientific watershed data to evaluate short-term risk in the aftermath of the Cave Fire.

The map released by public safety agencies is intended to provide awareness of the Cave Fire burn scar and to serve as an emergency preparedness resource for residents who live in and below the Cave Fire burn scar.  The map includes the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) 500-year flood map that identifies areas vulnerable to flooding. The public is encouraged to access this map to understand potential flooding zones, affected watersheds, creeks and streams that may be impacted during storms. Additionally, the public can enter an address into the map to determine whether their home, business or places they visit are located within these areas of concern.

Within Santa Barbara County, the southern foothills and surrounding communities have experienced occasional rockslides and flooding. Residents are reminded that they may be located in historically flood-prone areas. .

Public safety officials will evaluate each incoming storm and determine what protective actions, if any, the public should take. Residents should be prepared to take action and follow the instructions of public safety officials. Protective actions may include relocating prior to a storm’s arrival, sheltering in place, moving to higher ground, or evacuation.

Register to receive emergency alerts at www.ReadySBC.org, and make emergency plans to protect you, your family and your property. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe at any time, do not wait for instructions and relocate from your area.