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Electrical conductors helped spark destructive 2018 Goleta Holiday Fire, investigators say

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Investigators say electrical conductors and windy conditions sparked the destructive 2018 Holiday Fire in Goleta, which is the service area for Southern California Edison.

The fire, which started shortly after 8:30 p.m. on July 6, 2018 in the area of Holiday Hill Road and Fairview Avenue, burned 113 acres and destroyed 24 structures, including 10 homes. Three other homes were damaged.

The fire was fueled by strong winds and 100-degree temperatures that lasted well into the evening hours.

Investigators on Friday said they believe strong winds caused a tree branch, palm frond or some other type of vegetation to come into contact with the conductors, sparking the blaze.

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department says it cost $1.5 million to fight the fire, which took four days to fully contain.