Wildfires has been ongoing since last Monday in US state of southern California, causing suspension of train services and closure of highways to traffic. The flames could not be brought under control due to strong winds, officials stated. Approximately 5,500 hectares of land were burnt out. More than 700 firefighters are participating in extinguishing efforts.

The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Department has ordered evacuations in areas between El Capitan Beach State Park and West Camino Cielo and Arroyo Hondo Canyon and Refugio Canyon. In addition, evacuation warnings were issued for other surrounding areas. Only 5% of the flames could be brought under control according to firefighters. The cause of wildfires is not yet known.