Full Containment Expected in Santa Barbara, CA Fires

Photos courtesy Marianne Wohler While pictures of the fires raging in Santa Barbara, California look almost surreal, the Jesusita Fire, as of May 14, 2009, had burned 8.733 acres, destroyed 80 homes, 79 outbuildings, and one commercial property. Approximately 112 people have been affected, while 500 residences were still at various levels of threat, depending on their location. Full containment is expected today, with costs as of May 14, estimated at $17,050,000. There were 2,781 personnel assigned to this fire, with assistance from 203 engines, 86 crews, 13 bulldozers, 21 water tenders, 1 air attack aircraft, and 7 helicopters. There were 29 firefighter injured as of last Thursday.