A fast-moving wildfire in Southern California continues to spread rapidly, fueled by high winds and dry conditions, destroying homes and forcing thousands of residents to evacuate. Fire crews are battling the blaze, but the fire remains a serious threat as it burns out of control.
The Mountain Fire began in Ventura County, located northwest of Los Angeles, on Wednesday morning. As of Thursday evening, the fire has scorched over 20,000 acres, with only 5% of the fire contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).
In response to the growing threat, evacuation orders have been expanded, now covering 12 different zones. Firefighters are focusing on the northeast section of the blaze near Santa Paula, where the fire is raging the hardest.
Injuries and Damage Assessment
Ventura County Sheriff Jim Fryhoff reported that at least 10 people have been injured, including several who were affected by smoke inhalation. Fortunately, none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.
Over 400 homes were evacuated, though around 250 residents chose to remain behind. Emergency crews also conducted welfare checks at approximately 800 other homes.
“The destruction is heart-wrenching,” said Sheriff Fryhoff. “So many families are affected by this fire.”
Damage assessments are in progress, with teams reporting that 132 structures have been completely destroyed, the majority of which are homes. Another 88 structures have been damaged, but authorities are still in the process of inspecting other properties.
“This is a slow and careful process,” said Ventura County Fire spokesman Andy VanSciver. “We must ensure that all gas lines, power lines, and other hazards are addressed before we can continue with the assessments.”
Fire Threatens Thousands of Structures
The fire has threatened over 3,500 buildings, including homes, businesses, and agricultural properties. Governor Gavin Newsom visited the affected area on Thursday, where he was briefed on the fire’s progress and the ongoing firefighting efforts.
“It’s moving at an alarming rate,” said Fire Chief Dustin Gardner. “We’re seeing flames spread across grass, brush, crops, and homes—this is extremely dangerous.”
Photographs from the scene show plumes of thick smoke and homes engulfed in flames, with some properties completely destroyed by the fire. Firefighters are working under intense conditions to protect as many structures as possible.
To reduce the risk of new fires igniting from downed power lines, utility companies have proactively shut off electricity in some areas, leaving more than 50,000 customers without power.
Rancher Escapes with Horses
Hilda Gurney, 81, a ranch owner in Ventura County, had to evacuate her property when the fire advanced rapidly toward her ranch. Gurney, a two-time Olympic dressage competitor, owns Keenridge Farms, a facility that houses horses.
“We barely made it out in time,” said Gurney. “The fire came over the hill so quickly. We had no choice but to leave.”
Gurney evacuated her horses to a safe location at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, where they were fed hay and attended to by volunteers. Despite fears for her property, she received news that Keenridge Farms was still standing, offering her a glimmer of hope.
“I hope my farm will be intact,” she said. “I just want to be able to go back home.”
Weather Conditions Improve, But Fire Risk Remains High
There is some relief on the horizon, as meteorologists report that winds are beginning to subside. Earlier in the day, about 26 million people in California were under red flag warnings, signaling extreme fire danger. However, many of these warnings expired by 6 p.m. PT, although some remain in effect for mountainous regions until Friday morning.
Despite the easing winds, there is still concern about an upcoming Santa Ana wind event next week, which could increase fire risk once again.
“The weather is improving, but we still need to stay cautious,” said Dr. Ariel Cohen, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service. “Winds will calm, but we need to watch for another potential increase in fire danger in the days ahead.”
Firefighters Struggle with Challenging Terrain
Firefighting efforts are focused on the northeastern section of the fire, where the terrain is particularly difficult. Steep and rocky ground has made it challenging for firefighters to access the area.
“The ground is treacherous in that part of the fire,” said Ventura County Fire Captain Trevor Johnson. “Only our most experienced firefighters are able to work in this difficult environment, so we’re using aircraft to assist with the effort.”
High winds have also carried embers up to three miles, further complicating efforts to control the blaze.
“These types of fires, especially when combined with Santa Ana winds, present a unique challenge,” said Drew Smith, assistant chief of the Los Angeles County Fire Department. “It makes containment much more difficult.”
Fire Chief: ‘We’ll Stay with This Community Until the End’
Firefighters have been working non-stop since the fire began, with some crews logging up to 36-hour shifts. Fire Chief Dustin Gardner praised the dedication of the emergency responders, noting that they will continue to provide support to residents as soon as it is safe for them to return to their homes.
“This is an extraordinary display of human strength,” Gardner said. “We will stay with the community through this crisis. Our teams are committed to ensuring that residents have the help they need as soon as the area is safe to return.”
Community liaisons will continue to assist evacuees in the coming days, helping with heavy lifting, sifting through belongings, and offering emotional support.
“We’re in this for the long haul,” Gardner added. “We’ll stay with our community until the very end.”