Southern California oil rig catches fire, workers evacuated

More than 20 oil rig workers have been evacuated after a fire broke out on a platform off the Southern California coast.

The blaze ignited on Platform Habitat, nine miles off Carpinteria, early Monday morning as Harbor Patrol were seen trying to douse the flames.

Twenty-six staff were rushed to safety with two minor injuries reported.

The US Coast Guard said: “USCG, SB Harbor Patrol, SB County Fire, SB City Fire & Ventura County Fire are responding to a fire on platform HABITAT 7.5nm off Santa Barbara.

“All 26 crew evacuated safely. A 1000 yard safety zone is in effect around the platform. Updates will be made as available.”