Rapidly growing wildfires in Northwest Los Angeles have prompted thousands of residents to undergo mandatory evacuation as extreme heat and dry conditions spread rapidly.
The fire, named Canyon Fire, ignited Thursday afternoon along the border between Ventura and Los Angeles County. By Friday morning, it had expanded from 30 acres to nearly 5,000 acres.
The Ventura County Fire Department said in a statement that more than 2,700 residents have been asked to evacuate, while another 14,000 were evacuated warnings.
As of Friday, the fire was still completely out of control or “0% content”, officials said. Extreme heat and dry conditions complicate fire fighting efforts.
The National Weather Service predicts that temperatures will soar to 100°F (37.7°C) in the next few days.
The city of Santa Clarita, closest to the fire, is high. City officials urged residents to stay away from areas affected by the fire.
“#CanyonFire is spreading rapidly under extreme heat and dry conditions near the Ventura-La County line,” Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger wrote on X.”
“If you’re in Santa Clarita, Hasley Canyon or Val Verde, take the evacuation order seriously – leave immediately when the first responder says to leave. Please stay conscious – please don’t take risks.”
The Los Angeles County Fire Department said that as of Thursday night, the fire had reportedly caused damage or residence.
According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire, the Canyon Fire is one of several active wildfires across the state.
The Gifford Fire, the largest active fire in the state, has engulfed nearly 100,000 acres and burned in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.
Wildfires are becoming more frequent in California, with experts placing climate change as a key factor. Hotter, drier conditions make the fire season longer and more destructive.
In January, a fire in Eaton tore the Altadena neighborhood north of Los Angeles, killing at least 31 people and destroying thousands of buildings.
Health & Wellness Contributor
A wellness enthusiast and certified nutrition advisor, Meera covers everything from healthy living tips to medical breakthroughs. Her articles aim to inform and inspire readers to live better every day.
