A brush fire is threatening a Southern California community as it rapidly spread across more than 14,000 acres, prompting evacuations and resulting in property damage and injuries. Hundreds of firefighters are engaged in battling the blaze, characterized by fierce winds.
The Ventura County Fire Department reported injuries to several individuals, who have since been transported to hospitals, as well as damage to numerous structures due to the so-called Mountain fire.
Officials have urged residents to evacuate the area, emphasizing the use of all available resources to combat the fire. Approximately 800 firefighters are actively working on the incident, utilizing both ground and aerial support throughout the night.
More than 10,000 residents have been evacuated. The fire has threatened around 3,500 homes and buildings, according to a statement from Governor Gavin Newsom.
Forecasts indicate that strong winds may worsen the situation, with wind gusts expected to reach 40 to 50 miles per hour. This has maintained the fire danger at a critical level, as stated by the Storm Prediction Center.
The fire erupted around 9 a.m. on Wednesday, catching many residents off guard. Some, like local resident Gail Liacko, began to smell smoke and noticed soot on their property, prompting swift action to evacuate.
Evacuation orders have been issued for various areas within Ventura County, and an evacuation center has been established. The Ventura County Fire Department is expected to begin assessing the damage by Thursday.
At the designated evacuation shelter, Padre Serra Parish in Camarillo, many residents gathered, with some planning to stay the night while others sought alternative accommodations. Elderly evacuees shared their concerns and experiences amidst the chaos.
The Mountain fire remains zero percent contained as of early Thursday. Additionally, another fire, known as the Broad fire, is affecting the Malibu area, covering 50 acres and damaging several structures, although it is reported to be 15 percent contained.
In Northern California, power shut-offs have been implemented by utilities, including Pacific Gas & Electric and Southern California Edison, in an effort to prevent wildfires. Approximately 6,000 customers in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties are without power as a result.
Meteorologists have warned of dangerous weather conditions that could facilitate rapid fire spread, with red-flag warnings in effect across two counties. Firefighting resources have been prepared in 19 counties, while hazardous winds could pose further risks, including downed trees and additional power outages.