Kraig Pakulski / Thursday, April 23, 2026 / Categories: Regions, California; Santa Barbara County Return of the ‘Hope Ranch Volcano’: Smoke plumes spotted rising from seaside cliffs SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. (KEYT) – Large plumes of smoke have been spotted coming from the seaside cliffs in the Hope Ranch area Thursday. Santa Barbara County Fire Department confirmed that a fire engine and a battalion chief from the Santa Barbara City Fire Department are on the scene and monitoring the potential spread to nearby vegetation. Image courtesy of Greg Nowak The area is known for the 'Hope Ranch Volcano', as locals sometimes refer to the natural phenomenon, which has emitted smoke and even sparked fires multiple times in the past and is known as a sulfaterra. Image courtesy of Greg Nowak Sulfaterras, which is the name given to accumulated sulfur compounds on the surface of such geological phenomena, can often emit a mix of sulfur aerosols and water vapor. Image courtesy of Greg Nowak Local residents may see or smell smoke in the area and those with respiratory illness should take caution. Image courtesy of Greg NowakThe post Return of the ‘Hope Ranch Volcano’: Smoke plumes spotted rising from seaside cliffs appeared first on News Channel 3-12. Previous Article Lamine Yamal tras su lesión: “Volveré más fuerte y con más ganas” Next Article Return of the ‘Hope Ranch Volcano’: Smoke plumes spotted rising from seaside cliffs Print 18 Rate this article: No rating Tags: NewsSanta Barbara - South CountyTop StoriesLifestyleCommunitySafetyEnvironment & Energy Please login or register to post comments.