Santa Barbara County

California wildfires: Thomas Fire 60 percent contained, authorities say strong winds might return

Firefighters in California said Thomas wildfire was about 60 percent contained but they warned strong winds were still forecast.

California wildfires: Returning winds likely to hinder efforts of firefighters already battling dry climate

After a couple of days of respite heavy winds are expected to return on Wednesday to the California area plagued by a massive fire, potentially hindering the efforts of firefighters battling in an already dry climate.

Ferocious California wildfire grows into third-largest in state history as winds pick up

A raging California wildfire powered by fierce winds grew into the third-largest in state history on Saturday as forced evacuations turned neighborhoods into ghost towns and ash fell in some areas like heavy snow

Latest California wildfire close to becoming third largest ever in state with threat of resurgence

A California wildfire was close on Saturday to becoming the state’s third largest blaze on record, with more devastation possible from a resurgence of the harsh winds that have fueled the deadly fire’s growth.