Red Flag warning and Rey Fire updates

This is especially important for fire crews battling the Rey Fire in the Los Padres National Forest, as they have made significant progress holding the containment lines as it is currently at 33,006, according to fire officials.

The Paradise and Gibraltar Roads are still closed to the public, campers, and anyone not affiliated with the suppression actions. Residents and employees are allowed to utilize the roads for access to their homes or businesses. All additional road closures are still in effect. Highway 154 is open to traffic.

Recycled water from the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians’state-of-the-art tertiary wastewater treatment plant on the Santa Ynez Reservation is helping firefighters in their battle against the Rey Fire.

“When the Tribe was approached about water supply needs, the recycled water from our wastewater treatment plant immediately came to mind, especially since we are experiencing a record-breaking drought period,” said Kenneth Kahn, Tribal Chairman for the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians.  “We are pleased to be able to provide assistance at this crucial time in this firefighting effort.”

1,097 personnel are currently battling the blaze, which is down from more than 1,700 last week. The Rey Fire started just before 3 p.m. on Thursday, August 18, near the White Rock Campgrounds, said Mike Eliason of Santa Barbara County Fire.

Red Flag Warning Details