Evacuation orders lifted for parts of Santa Barbara County

Residents of Carpinteria, Summerland and some other parts of Santa Barbara County can return home Saturday when evacuation orders and warnings are lifted at noon, officials announced.

The eased restrictions affect areas south of Highway 192 from Ortega Ridge Road to the Santa Barbara and Ventura county line. That includes Summerland and Carpinteria, where an evacuation warning had been issued. Highway 192 is also called East Valley Road and Foothill Road in that area.

In addition, an evacuation order that had been in place north of Highway 192 and east of Toro Canyon Road is being lifted at noon Saturday, officials said.

The changes were announced Saturday by Santa Barbara County's emergency operations center.

Montecito and surrounding areas were hit hard by flooding and mud and debris flows early Tuesday morning after heavy rain pounded areas scorched by the Thomas Fire in December.

Customers of the Montecito Water District, which includes Summerland, remain under orders to boil water.

Officials warned those going home that it can be a traumatic experience to come back to damaged or destroyed homes and neighborhoods.

"You may feel overwhelmed by the many tasks ahead," the county's news release said. "Remember that self-care is the vital first step for you to remain healthy and resilient."Residents should drive slowly as heavy equipment and personnel are still at work in some places, authorities said. They should also follow directions given by any law enforcement personnel in their area.

Areas affected by the debris slide are still without power and gas, officials said.

Some restricted areas remain closed in the Montecito area where rescue and cleanup efforts are ongoing.