Wind-Fanned Wildfire Burns Out of Control Near Los Angeles

AFP/APP

Los Angeles: A rapidly spreading wildfire, driven by fierce winds of up to 80 mph (130 kph), has erupted near Los Angeles, triggering mass evacuations and hospitalizing several residents. The fire, which began near Moorpark and expanded to 1,500 acres (600 hectares) in a few hours, spread to Camarillo, threatening 70,000 residents.

Flames destroyed luxury homes in the Camarillo Heights area, with smoke blanketing surrounding neighborhoods.

The high winds are picking up embers, worsening fire spread and complicating containment efforts. Aircraft support was grounded due to wind intensity, while ground crews, helicopters, and mutual aid resources are actively working to protect lives and property.

The Ventura County Fire Department issued evacuation orders and advised citizens to comply for safety.

Amid evacuations, evacuees faced unexpected urgency, as soot and smoke surrounded homes without warning. Resident Gail Liacko described the surreal experience of evacuating in panic, grabbing essentials as smoke filled her street.

As a precaution, electricity companies shut off power to 21,000 customers to prevent new fires from power lines, a common strategy during high winds in California. Firefighters are focusing efforts on controlling the blaze in heavily impacted areas, including fruit groves and brushland.