California's Firefighters Battling Jesusita Blaze See Progress

Flames destroyed 77 homes, while damaging another 22.

Jesusita Fire near Santa Barbara, California. Photo courtesy: YouTube

(SANTA BARBARA) - Fire crews near Santa Barbara, California have made serious progress in their fight to contain the Jesusita Fire. So far 8,733 acres have been burned by a wildfire that threatened more than 500 homes.

The Los Padres National Forest/Santa Barbara County Fire located northwest of Mission Canyon and Santa Barbara, is currently 70% contained.

Flames destroyed 77 homes, while damaging another 22. Additionally, 69 outbuildings have been damaged and 60 destroyed, according to California Fire officials.

The number of structures reported represents the continuing assessment of structures either damaged or destroyed. A full assessment is ongoing by the City and County of Santa Barbara and is anticipated to be completed the next operational period.

Large numbers of fire teams and favorable weather sped the progress in this battle. More than 4,100 firefighters were called to the area along with more than 400 fire engines.

There were 13 helicopters, 21 bulldozers, and 37 water tenders. The personnel accounted for 109 hand crews; some of the toughest work most will ever attempt to take on.

Cal Fire says the influence of the fog continues to cause the fire to lay down at night. The fire's burning interior is expected to continue moving north towards East Camino Cielo.

Fire is reported in the West Cold Springs Creek but it has reportedly slowed its progression due to the marine air influence.

At this point damage is estimated to be $10.8 million.

Here is a recently posted video of the Jesusita Fire by YouTube user israelyaniv7:

Video