Overview
- The Santa Rosa Island fire, which reached more than 10,000 acres Monday, remains 0% contained and is the island’s largest on record.
- Officials say a 67-year-old sailor crashed on the coast Friday and fired rescue flares that likely ignited the blaze, though the cause is still under investigation.
- Helicopters evacuated 11 National Park Service employees Sunday with no injuries reported after housing was threatened by fast-moving flames.
- Two historic buildings were confirmed lost, and the National Park Service closed the island to visitors as crews focus on protecting key structures.
- Strong winds and rough seas have limited water drops and forced crews and supplies to travel by boat, while rare Torrey pines and other island-only species face risk.