"We are a little perplexed at this point, to tell you the truth," geologist David Panaro told the Ventura County Star.

This is the fifth time that the patch of steep, rugged terrain a few miles north of the town of Fillmore has recorded high temperatures, according to retired U.S. Forest Service geologist Allen King.

He told the Star that he has seen small plumes of smoke wafting from cracks in the ground at the site.

Fire crews have been dispatched to the remote location five times since 1987, sometimes injecting water into the ground in an attempt to extinghish the suspected subterranean blaze.

One theory being floated for the ground being hot enough to melt the glue in the soles of boots is that hydrocarbons, such as natural gas or oil, are burning beneath the surface.

Scientists say they are unable to say exactly what could have started such a fire, or how long it’s been burning.

Firefighters have cleared brush surrounding the mysterious hot spot to prevent additional outbreaks of wildfires.

Photo: Karen Quincy Loberg - The Ventura County Star
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