UPDATE (2:42 p.m.) - Highway 166 has been reopened in both directions.
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UPDATE (2 p.m.) - A CAL FIRE official at the scene tells KSBY News that forward progress of the Canyon Fire has been stopped.
The fire broke out Friday afternoon along Highway 166 near Bull Canyon Rd. east of Santa Maria.
It has reportedly burned 16 acres and is 10 percent contained.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The highway remains closed at this time.
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UPDATE (1:11 p.m.) - Law enforcement is shutting down traffic in both directions on Highway 166 at Bull Canyon Rd. due to the Canyon Fire.
It is unknown how long the closure will last.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the fire is burning on the south side of the highway, moving in an easterly direction toward Bull Canyon.
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(12:44 p.m.) - Firefighters are responding to a brush fire along Highway 166 east of Santa Maria.
It was first reported at about 12:25 p.m. near Bull Canyon Road.
Multiple crews from CAL FIRE SLO and the Santa Barbara County Fire Department are responding to the scene.
Drivers traveling along Highway 166 should be aware of emergency vehicles in the area.
This is a developing story and will be updated with new information as it becomes available.
