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Environment

Urgent Evacuations as Mountain Fire Rages in Ventura County

08:10

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California's Ventura County is grappling with a rapidly spreading wildfire, known as the Mountain Fire, which has prompted urgent evacuation orders for over 10,000 residents. The fire, fueled by powerful winds exceeding 60 mph, has already destroyed numerous homes and threatens thousands more in the suburban areas surrounding Camarillo.

The blaze erupted early Wednesday morning near Balcom Canyon Road and quickly escalated from less than half a square mile to an alarming 16 square miles within just a few hours. Governor Gavin Newsom has requested federal assistance as the flames pose a significant threat to both residential and agricultural structures in the region.

A thick plume of smoke has enveloped neighborhoods, severely hampering visibility for both evacuees and firefighting efforts. Ventura County Fire Captain Trevor Johnson described the situation as intense, noting that firefighters were engaged in life-saving operations as they rushed to evacuate residents from their homes. Two individuals have been hospitalized for smoke inhalation, but no significant injuries among firefighters have been reported.

The erratic winds have also grounded aerial firefighting support, although water-dropping helicopters continue to operate. As embers from the fire spread up to 2.5 miles away, first responders have made contact with approximately 14,000 residents urging them to evacuate immediately. Fire Chief Dustin Gardner emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "This fire is moving dangerously fast."

Residents have shared harrowing accounts of their escape. Jade Katz, who relies on a service dog and was unable to drive herself, waited for assistance while watching her neighborhood succumb to flames. Emergency responders eventually arrived to escort her to safety.

In addition to the Mountain Fire, another wildfire near Malibu has prompted authorities to close portions of the Pacific Coast Highway. The Broad Fire has burned about 50 acres and is currently 15% contained.

The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings across Southern California due to exceptionally dry conditions and high winds. With humidity levels dropping as low as 8%, forecasters warn of extreme fire behavior continuing into Thursday.

Utilities are proactively shutting down power in high-risk areas to prevent further ignitions from electrical lines. On Wednesday alone, more than 65,000 customers in Southern California experienced power outages due to these precautionary measures.

This wildfire outbreak is reminiscent of previous devastating fires in the region, including the Woolsey Fire of 2018 and the Thomas Fire of 2017, both of which caused extensive damage and loss of life. As firefighters battle these blazes, residents are urged to heed evacuation orders and stay informed about evolving conditions.