Michael Jackson’s Famous Neverland Ranch Threatened By Approaching Wildfires

Michael Jackson’s 2,600-acre ranch, famously known as the Neverland ranch, is currently at risk, as wildfires outside of Santa Barbara have been ravaging the area for days now. The disaster has led to the burning of over 18,000 land acres so far and is reportedly moving closer to areas around the Los Padres National Forest.

The incident commander with Santa Barbara County Fire, Anthony Stornetta, detailed their control methods, adding that they are also making plans for after the fire. The safety of Michael’s property, also known as the Sycamore Valley ranch, remains uncertain as Anthony stressed the possibility of a wider spread at night.

What caused the wildfires near Neverland ranch?

According to National Weather Service meteorologists, an unusual heat wave in the West, plus dry air, is the most likely instigator of the fires, which have been challenging to put out so far. It is also possible that the disaster was due to human activities, as the cause has yet to be confirmed.

It got so bad that residents of Figueroa Mountain Road and neighborhoods within Sawmill Basin, including Tunnel Road and the Figueroa Campground, were asked to leave their homes. Other areas currently experiencing wildfires include the Lake Tahoe National Forest

What’s the fate of Neverland?

While the fires are still being managed, Neverland is at risk of being affected, leaving decades of its development to the brute side of nature. The property used to be a dream come true for kids, with attractions like park rides, a menagerie, and more amusement. The paradise created is now a shadow of itself, although reports say developments and renovations will continue thanks to Michael’s biopic coming soon.

The late legend cherished what he made out of the property purchased in 1987; however, after years of rumors, allegations, and reports of sexual misconduct and pedophilia, Michael stopped visiting the ranch since it was now associated with depravity. Recently, filming the late King of Pop’s biopic has brought back attention to the abandoned estate, which will hopefully be unscathed from the wildfires.