CAMARILLO, Calif.—A Southern California wildfire has destroyed 132 structures, mostly homes, in less than two days, fire officials said Thursday as raging winds were forecast to ease.
The fire started Wednesday morning in Ventura County and has grown to about 32 square miles at 5 percent containment. Its cause has not been determined.
Ten people have been injured in the course of the fire, Ventura County Sheriff James Fryhoff said. Most of them suffered from smoke inhalation or other non-life-threatening injuries.Fire officials said 88 other structures were damaged but did not specify whether they had been burned or affected by water or smoke damage.
Some 10,000 people remained under evacuation orders Thursday as the Mountain Fire continued to threaten some 3,500 structures in suburban neighborhoods, ranches and agricultural areas around Camarillo in Ventura County.
Helicopters and firefighting aircraft have been deployed to help contain the blaze, dropping water and fire retardant to slow its spread. Despite the challenges posed by strong winds and dry vegetation, firefighters are working tirelessly to establish containment lines around the affected areas.
As winds are expected to decrease, officials hope for better conditions to make headway against the flames. Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation orders, as unpredictable fire behavior and shifting winds continue to pose a risk.
Meanwhile, evacuation centers have been set up for displaced residents, with resources provided to support those who have lost their homes. Community members, local businesses, and volunteers have rallied to provide donations, food, and essential supplies to those affected.
The fire has prompted officials to remind residents across Southern California of the importance of wildfire preparedness, especially given ongoing drought conditions and forecasts predicting more fire-prone weather in the coming months.
