Photo: ETIENNE LAURENT / AFP / Getty Images
A fast-moving wildfire known as the Mountain Fire has led to the evacuation of over 14,000 people in Ventura County, California. The fire, which began on Wednesday (November 6), has spread to more than 14,000 acres, destroying numerous structures and homes. The fire's rapid spread has been fueled by potent winds gusting over 60 mph, leading to extreme weather conditions and a rare “particularly dangerous situation” red flag warning for potential “life-threatening” fire behavior.
Firefighters have been working aggressively to control the fire, with water-dropping helicopters operating throughout the night. Despite these efforts, containment remains at 0%, according to Ventura County Fire Department spokesperson Andy VanSciver. Damage-assessment teams are currently assessing the extent of the damage.
One resident, Steven Snyder, told CNN that he and his family were unable to evacuate due to blocked roads and had to rely on fireproofing additions to his house for protection. Despite the loss of power, Snyder and his family remained safe.
The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for over 18 million people, including the Los Angeles area, indicating dangerous fire weather conditions. The warning is expected to affect 25 million people in Southern California and the greater San Francisco Bay area, according to Mercury News.
The Mountain Fire is one of several wildfires currently burning in California. In Los Angeles County, crews are working to contain a wildfire near Malibu's Broad Beach. The fire has burned 50 acres and is 15% contained. Two structures have reportedly been destroyed.