Rampant wildfires in the hills and mountains of Santa Barbara County, California have threatened homes and businesses, including the late King of Pop's former estate.
- Jul 8, 2024
AceShowbiz - Wildfires burning in the hills and mountains of Santa Barbara County, California, have forced evacuations, including the area where Michael Jackson's former Neverland Ranch is located.
The Lake Fire, which began on July 5, has burned over 18,000 acres and is less than ten percent contained. The blaze is primarily burning in rural areas but poses a significant threat to populated communities if it spreads south or west.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office has issued an evacuation order for an area near the Los Padres National Forest that includes Neverland Ranch. Approximately 100 residents have been affected by the order.
Firefighters are battling the blaze on multiple fronts, using both direct and indirect firefighting techniques. However, challenging terrain and extreme heat conditions are making the operation difficult.
Jackson purchased the 2,600-acre property in 1987 and transformed it into an amusement park-like estate complete with rides, a zoo and a movie theater. The property, now known as Sycamore Valley Ranch, was listed for sale in 2015 for $100 million but was eventually sold in 2020 to businessman Ron Burkle for $22 million.
In the wake of the Leaving Neverland documentary, the estate underwent a cosmetic refurbishment to restore it to its Jackson-era grandeur for the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic, "Michael".
The cause of the Lake Fire remains under investigation, with arson a potential factor. Several other wildfires are also burning in the Golden State, including the Basin Fire in the Sierra National Forest, which has consumed over 14,000 acres.
Extreme heat and dry vegetation are fueling the growth of the fires, making firefighting conditions hazardous. Numerous firefighters have suffered heat-related illnesses due to the extreme conditions.