The 805
Lessons learned a year after the Thomas Fire and debris flow
A year ago, the Thomas Fire swallowed large swaths of Ventura County and lept into Santa Barbara’s front country, setting the stage for the late-night debris flow that took 23 lives.
By Jonathan Bastian • • 29m ListenA year ago, the Thomas Fire swallowed large swaths of Ventura County and lept into Santa Barbara’s front country, setting the stage for the late-night debris flow that took 23 lives. As we observe those anniversaries, we’re checking back with those we spoke with in the immediate aftermath.
In this episode
5 storiesSanta Barbara says goodbye to voluntary evacuations
Since debris tore down the mountains of Montecito last January, evacuation maps, risk levels, vocabulary and messaging have all changed. We look at what danger this year’s winter rains might hold, and how the county has prepared.
Read the story7 minMontecito survivor reflects: ‘We will never return to this house’
A year after Mari Mitchel and her husband survived the debris flow in Montecito, she recounts her experience and shares how she’s doing.
Read the story5 minDisaster relief organizer: ‘There are people pulling for you’
While Mari Mitchel decided to sell her property and leave Montecito, her neighbor, Thomas Tighe, is planning to rebuild. Tighe’s story is almost surreal.
Read the story5 minWhat happens when the region’s only psychiatric hospital burns
When a psychiatric hospital in Ventura was damaged by the Thomas Fire, dozens of patients were forced to go without treatment. A year later, a look at the ripple effects that’s had on the community.
Read the story5 minA Thomas Fire survivor offers advice to a Woolsey Fire survivor
Monique Quigley’s Malibou Lake home burned down in the Woolsey Fire last month. Dawn Ceniceros lost her Ojai home a year ago in the Thomas Fire. The two women met up so Quigley could get some advice.
Read the story7 min
