Nearly 25 million Californians are under a “life-threatening” fire warning as strong winds continue to fuel wildfires across Southern California. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag warning, indicating extreme fire conditions, which will remain in effect until 6 p.m. Thursday. This warning impacts both Southern California and the greater San Francisco Bay area.
Forecasters have noted that recent weather patterns resemble conditions that have previously led to some of the most destructive fires in Southern California’s history. Due to these fires, schools in Ventura County, northwest of Los Angeles, will be closed through Friday.
Current Situation:
- In Ventura County, the Mountain Fire has expanded significantly, driven by Santa Ana winds and extremely dry conditions. Fire Chief Dustin Gardner reported that the fire is spreading at a “dangerous rate,” burning through fields and hedgerows.
- About 800 firefighters and 58 fire engines are currently working to contain the blaze on South Mountain, but helicopters have been grounded due to unsafe flying conditions.
- Footage from Camarillo Hills shows homes and trees engulfed in flames, with some structures destroyed. Although officials have not confirmed the number of damaged structures, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced federal aid for firefighting efforts, estimating that around 3,500 homes, buildings, and businesses could be affected.
- The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reports that the Mountain Fire has scorched approximately 14,148 acres with 0% containment, leaving over 14,000 people under evacuation orders.
Evacuation Challenges:
- Residents like Christina Noren and her husband, Paul Boutin, were forced to evacuate their home in Camarillo Heights. Boutin, who recently underwent surgery following thyroid cancer remission, opted to stay at a hotel 100 miles away to avoid smoke exposure. They took only essentials, leaving behind Noren’s cherished art collection amassed over 30 years.
Ongoing Fires:
- In Malibu, a separate brush fire, driven by high winds, destroyed at least two structures and led to a partial closure of the Pacific Coast Highway. Winds reached up to 51 mph, with low humidity contributing to the rapid spread of flames.
Widespread Impact on Power Providers:
- California wildfires have burned more than 1,015,138 acres so far this year, a significant increase from the 332,822 acres burned by this time last year, according to Cal Fire.