A rapidly spreading wildfire, known as the Mountain Fire, has destroyed 132 structures—primarily homes—since igniting in Ventura County on Wednesday morning. Officials report that the fire, fueled by fierce Santa Ana winds, has grown to cover approximately 32 square miles (83 square kilometers) with only 5% containment as of Thursday. The cause of the blaze remains under investigation.
The fire has injured ten people, with most victims suffering from smoke inhalation or minor injuries, according to Ventura County Sheriff James Fryhoff. Additionally, 88 structures sustained damage, although officials have yet to confirm whether they were affected by flames, smoke, or water.
Over 10,000 residents remain under evacuation orders as the fire endangers around 3,500 buildings, spanning suburban neighborhoods, ranches, and agricultural zones around Camarillo. Fire crews, supported by water-dropping helicopters, are prioritizing protection of hillside homes along the fire’s northeast edge, near the city of Santa Paula.
Kelly Barton shared her family’s heartbreak as their Camarillo ranch home was reduced to ashes. "This was their forever retirement home," she said. "Now in their 70s, they have to start over." While Barton’s father managed to save four vintage cars from the blaze, two—including a cherished Chevy Nova—were lost.
This latest fire comes amid heightened caution from officials across Southern California, who warned residents to brace for the notorious Santa Ana winds that typically blow during fall and winter. These dry, gusty winds from the northeast drive the flames further and are expected to pick up again early next week.
The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings, with meteorologist Ariel Cohen noting that while winds have eased in lower elevations, they remain gusty in higher areas. The warnings are expected to lift entirely by Friday morning.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in Ventura County. The fire's rapid spread—growing from less than half a square mile to over 16 square miles in just five hours—echoes the devastation of previous fires in the region, such as the 2017 Thomas Fire and 2018 Woolsey Fire, which caused extensive damage and fatalities.
Residents like Marcus Eriksen and Sharon Boggie have watched the flames approach dangerously close to their properties. "We thought we were going to lose it," Boggie said, after evacuating with her dogs and later finding the situation somewhat improved.
As the risk of wildfire looms, Southern California Edison has cut power to nearly 70,000 customers in five counties to prevent sparks from downed power lines—a safety measure adopted after similar equipment ignited previous deadly blazes.
Over a dozen schools and campuses across Ventura County were closed on Thursday, with a few closures anticipated for Friday as firefighters continue their battle against the Mountain Fire.