A significant traffic incident occurred today on State Route 154 (SR 154) at Paradise Road in Santa Barbara, CA, causing major disruptions to traffic flow. The collision involved two vehicles: a red pickup truck and a 4WD pickup. The red pickup was completely engulfed in flames, while the other vehicle sustained damage and was removed from the scene by a tow truck.
Emergency services responded swiftly, deploying multiple units to manage the situation and restore traffic flow. The incident led to lane closures and blocked intersections along SR 154 and adjacent roads, resulting in considerable delays and congestion for drivers. Traffic was reported to be completely stopped in both directions, leading to backups extending for miles.
As crews worked to clear the scene, motorists were advised to seek alternate routes to avoid the affected areas. The California Highway Patrol coordinated with local authorities to implement hard closures at key intersections, including State Route 246 and Paradise Road, ensuring safety for all involved.
Drivers are encouraged to stay informed about traffic conditions and plan their travel accordingly. The situation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as emergency services continue to manage the aftermath of this traffic incident.