Coast guard and fire department personnel are rushing to assist people on a boat close to Santa Barbara and Los Angeles

At least 30 people are trapped on a burning boat off the coast of southern California, with unconfirmed reports of casualties, possible fatalities and a rescue operation underway.

Coast guard and fire department personnel from Ventura County are rushing to assist people on a 75ft boat near Santa Cruz Island, close to the cities of Santa Barbara and Los Angeles.