USA Forest fire in California destroys numerous homes

A dangerous forest fire in Southern California has engulfed numerous buildings. The flames have now destroyed at least 132 houses and other buildings and damaged 88 others, US media reported, citing the fire department. Ten people have also suffered smoke inhalation, according to the sheriff's office. Hundreds of homes were evacuated.

"It's really devastating and heartbreaking," said Ventura County Fire Chief Dustin Gardner on Thursday evening (local time). The so-called "Mountain Fire" near the city of Camarillo had spread to twice its original size virtually overnight. According to the authorities, the flames charred an area of around 82 square kilometers.

Flames only five percent under control

The fire, which broke out on Wednesday for unknown reasons, is now five percent contained, according to the Calfire fire protection authority. Hundreds of firefighters are battling the blaze.

The fire drove thousands of people from their homes in the affected region, around 80 kilometers northwest of Los Angeles. The authorities ordered further evacuations.

California Governor Gavin Newsom visited the site to assess the situation. He declared a state of emergency for Ventura County in order to release additional funds. "This is a dangerous fire that is spreading rapidly and threatening lives," he warned. More than 3,500 homes and businesses are threatened in the affected region, it said in a statement.

Strong winds fanned the flames

Southern California is currently affected by strong Santa Ana winds, which occur mainly in the fall and winter. The dry winds exacerbated the extreme fire danger, it said. Added to this are persistent summer temperatures and dry vegetation, which ignites easily.

The responsible energy supplier, Southern California Edison, switched off the power in particularly endangered areas as a precautionary measure. Strong gusts of wind can damage electricity pylons and lines and cause sparks. This has repeatedly caused fires in the past.

Every year, forest fires cause major destruction to forests and residential areas in California. In view of climate change, experts warn that fires are becoming more frequent and more destructive.

SDA