California wildfires: Thousands near LA ordered to evacuate as fast-moving Canyon fire spreads
Hundreds of firefighters are battling the Canyon Fire, which ignited Thursday afternoon in Ventura and Los Angeles counties
A fast growing brush fire in a mountainous area north of Los Angeles has forced thousands of people to evacuate as firefighters are working to get it under control.
Hundreds of firefighters battled the Canyon Fire overnight after it ignited Thursday afternoon in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, as temperatures hit 100 degrees mixed with strong winds.
Officials said good progress had been made overnight as temperatures cooled, and the blaze was 28 percent contained as of Friday evening. It has so far spread to 5,370 acres, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said.
LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who represents the district, urged residents to evacuate.
“Extreme heat and low humidity in our north county have created dangerous conditions where flames can spread with alarming speed,” Barger said in a statement Thursday. “If first responders tell you to leave, go — without hesitation.”
The fire is burning just south of Lake Piru, a reservoir located in the Los Padres National Forest. It's close to Lake Castaic, a popular recreation area burned by the Hughes Fire in January.
Thousands near LA ordered to evacuate as fast-moving Canyon fire spreads
Thousands of people have been ordered to evacuate their homes in Southern California Thursday as a fast-moving brush fire ripped through a mountainous area north of Los Angeles.
The Canyon Fire ignited around 1:30 p.m. PST Thursday and was still burning Friday afternoon as firefighters battled the blaze overnight.
Stay with us for the latest developments.
In pictures: Firefighters battle wildfire blaze
Thousands of Californians have been put under evacuation orders
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has warned residents of Los Angeles and Ventura County to “leave now.”
Nearly 400 personnel assigned to fight California wildfires
Nearly 400 personnel have been assigned to fight the wildfires that have burned through southern California.
Equipment, including 45 fire engines, seven helicopters and three bulldozers, has also been deployed.
Additionally, there are multiple firefighting air tankers flying fire suppression missions “as conditions allow,” according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
Canyon Fire is 25% contained
The Canyon Fire in southern California is now 25 percent contained.
Fire crews still have a long way to go as they battle the flames in Ventura and Los Angeles counties.
Map shows where California wildfires are burning
A map provided by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection shows the Canyon Fire burning through 5,370 acres in Ventura and Los Angeles counties.
Gavin Newsom announces FEMA assistance in wildfire response
California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the state secured assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to support its response to the Canyon Fire.
“Thank you to the brave men and women who are fighting the Canyon Fire and other wildfires throughout the state. This assistance will help our partners protect California communities,” Newsom said Friday.
Cal Fire advises residents with pets on International Cat Day
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has shared a message for International Cat Day: “Take a moment to make sure your pets are part of your evacuation plan.”
“Having a plan in place for your entire household—including pets—can make all the difference in case of an emergency. Pack a go-bag with food, water, medications, leashes, carriers, and comfort items BEFORE an emergency happens,” Cal Fire advises.
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