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Jesusita Fire Near Santa Barbara Only 10% Contained (VIDEO)

Experts say dry conditions will elevate California's fire risk for 20 Years.

(SANTA BARBARA, Calif.) - AccuWeather's Expert Meteorologist Joe Bastardi says Southern California's extremely dry conditions are going to have an ongoing impact in terms of fire safety. In fact, he says residents will continue to see fire-related problems because of this for at least the next 20 years.

The drought hasn't been good news for crews battling the Jesusita Fire north of Santa Barbara, The Pacific Ocean is cooling, and that means the weather pattern is changing and the result will be areas of the Southwest remaining dry.

Jesusita Fire Near Santa Barbara Forces Thousands of Evacuations (VIDEO)

The fire is in Red Flag Warning stage, and 90 degree plus temperatures are expected this afternoon along with continuing wind.

(SANTA BARBARA, Calif.) - Extremely dry and windy conditions are fueling the Jesusita Fire north of Santa Barbara, California. It marks an early entry for the wildfire season in a state that saw severe damage and loss of life due to wildfires last year.

So far the Jesusita Fire has forced the evacuation of more than 13,000 homes. The residents of another 13,000 homes are on evacuation standby.