VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Canyon Fire on south Vandenberg AFB grew to 4,528 acres Sunday night, continuing to burn at what responders describe as a “slow to moderate speed”.
In the early hours of Monday morning, fire teams used a helicopter to map fire lines and evaluate progress. Understanding the precise boundaries of the fire will allow the commanding fire chief to more effectively distribute fire personnel and resources.
As of 7:30 a.m. PDT, the fire is 0% contained, according to officials. However, Vandenberg AFB firefighters assisted by U.S. Forestry Service, CalFire and Santa Barbara County fire crews are making progress in their efforts to contain the fire as it moves towards the southern base boundary and the Sudden Ranch area.
The fire has caused power outages in several facilities on south base. Those buildings are currently operating on generator power. Civil Engineers will sustain the generators until downed electrical lines can be repaired and commercial power is restored to base facilities.
Vandenberg AFB fire fighter and security forces are assessing possible causes. However, at this time, the cause of the fire is unknown.
More information to follow as the situation develops, and the current situation is subject to change.