Multiple wildfires have ignited in Southern California in recent days, as investigators examine unusual possible ignition sources while crews make progress against at least one of the state’s largest blazes.
The Santa Rosa Island Fire on Santa Rosa Island in Santa Barbara County has burned more than 17,500 acres and is about 44% contained, according to fire officials.
Investigators are looking into whether the blaze may have been sparked by an SOS flare fired by a 67-year-old stranded boater after his sailboat reportedly struck rocks near the island on May 15. The U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Ventura U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Ventura initially raised the possibility of a connection but later clarified that the official cause remains under investigation. The man was rescued the following morning and was not injured…