CALIFORNIA - A fast-growing wildfire northwest of Los Angeles has forced mandatory evacuations for thousands of residents as extreme heat and dry conditions drive its rapid spread.
The Canyon Fire ignited on Thursday afternoon along the Ventura–Los Angeles county line. By Friday morning it had grown from about 30 acres to nearly 5,000 acres.
More than 2,700 residents have been ordered to evacuate, while an additional 14,000 people have evacuation warnings, the Ventura County Fire Department said.The fire is partially contained, with about 25% of its perimeter under control as of Friday, officials said. Extreme heat and dry conditions are hampering firefighting efforts. The National Weather Service forecasts temperatures reaching around 100°F (37.7°C) in the coming days. Santa Clarita, one of the areas closest to the blaze, is on high alert. City officials urge residents to stay away from fire-affected zones. “The Canyon Fire is spreading fast under extreme heat and dry conditions near the Ventura–LA County line,” LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger wrote on X. “If you’re in Santa Clarita, Hasley Canyon, or Val Verde, take evacuation orders seriously — when first responders say GO, leave immediately. Stay vigilant and don’t risk lives.” As of Thursday evening, there were no reported injuries or homes damaged by the blaze, the LA County Fire Department said. The Canyon Fire is one of several active wildfires across the state, Cal Fire reported. The Gifford Fire, the largest in the state, has burned nearly 100,000 acres across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. Wildfires are more frequent in California, with climate change cited as a key factor. Hotter, drier conditions have lengthened and worsened fire seasons. (BBC)
