A devastating wildfire has ravaged the mountains of Santa Barbara County in Southern California, scorching over 16,000 acres of land and posing a significant threat to ranches in the area, including the iconic Neverland Ranch once owned by Michael Jackson.
Dubbed the Lake Fire, the blaze ignited near Zaca Lake, just northeast of Los Olivos, on Friday afternoon, as reported by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
As of Sunday, the fire remained zero percent contained, with authorities diligently working to determine the cause of the inferno.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents near the Los Padres National Forest, encompassing the former grounds of Neverland Ranch where around 100 individuals were impacted.
Strong winds have fueled the fire’s rapid spread in a southeastern direction, placing Neverland Ranch and neighboring properties in immediate jeopardy, according to officials.
Once owned by music legend Michael Jackson, Neverland Ranch was a sprawling entertainment complex featuring a zoo, train, and amusement park attractions. Despite its former glory, the ranch has a controversial history, with allegations of misconduct surrounding Jackson.
Local firefighters are battling the intense blaze amidst high temperatures and low humidity levels, with over 750 personnel and multiple aircraft deployed to suppress the flames.
Evacuation warnings are in effect for various areas surrounding the fire, as authorities work tirelessly to contain the destructive force of nature.
