Brush fire erupts in foothills above Montecito

MONTECITO, Calif.

Fire officials say the wildfire began shortly before noon in heavy brush and was believed to be up to 10 acres in size at one point, but officials now say it was closer to 1 acre in size. The fire was in an area east of the Tea Fire burn area.

Three hikers who were in the area were able to get to a safe place.

Mandatory evacuations were issued for homes above Mountain Drive, but the evacuation order was lifted a short time later. It was unclear how many homes had been affected.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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