Southern California Wildfires

By Amber Stevens

    A wildfire in Ventura County started in the mountains and burned into neighborhoods, setting homes on fire and forcing more than 14,000 people to evacuate. It spread over 14,000 acres in just a few hours, affecting many structures. 

    Wind gusts of over 60 mph drove the fire, and weather conditions were so bad that forecasters issued it as a “particularly dangerous situation,” and a red flag warning for potential “life-threatening” fire behavior. 

    Officials have not determined how many structures were affected, but they do know many were. At least 800 firefighters and 58 fire engines are trying to stop the spread on South Mountain. The conditions aren't safe for helicopters to fly over. 

    Forecasters say this is one of the worst fires in Southern California. The California fire department has contained only 5% of the fire because of the windy and dry conditions, which gives the fire “fuel” to catch with the smallest spark and spread like crazy. The fire-fall weather days in California have doubled since the 1980’s because of the temperatures. 

    Red Flag warnings are in place for more than 18 million people including the LA area. The Ventura County fire official doesn't know what started the fire, the fire department is investigating what caused it.