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800 firefighters or more were working to contain the Mountain Fire on South Mountain in Ventura County, California, Wednesday, fire officials said. Photo by the Montecito Fire Department
14 Nov 2024

25 million people under Red Flag fire warning in California - The "Mountain Fire" only 60 % contained as of Wednesday

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As of Wednesday, November 13, 2024, approximately 2,399 firefighters are actively working to contain the Mountain Fire in Ventura County, California. 

The fire, which began on November 6, has burned 20,630 acres and is currently 60% contained. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Montecito Fire Department is among the agencies contributing resources and personnel to combat the wildfire. Their involvement underscores the collaborative efforts of multiple fire departments across the state to manage and suppress the fire effectively.

The Mountain Fire has led to the destruction of over 200 structures and prompted thousands of residents to evacuate. Firefighters continue to work diligently to protect lives and property, aiming to increase containment in the coming days. 

Last week, strong winds drove rapid wildfires across Southern California,  further complicating efforts for firefighters already struggling with poor visibility to protect lives.

The National Weather Service  issued a Red Flag Warning on November 7, in effect until 6 p.m.,  signalling “extreme and life-threatening fire behaviour.” 

The warning impacted 25 million residents across Southern California and the greater San Francisco Bay Area.

Earlier in the week, forecasters cautioned that current conditions resemble those that have fuelled “some of the worst fires in Southern California history.”

In response to the ongoing danger, all schools in Ventura County, located northwest of Los Angeles, were closed through Friday.

The Mountain Fire began at 8:51 a.m. on November 6 in Ventura County, California. Over the course of a week, the wildfire has consumed 20,630 acres. By Wednesday morning, firefighting efforts involved a crew of 2,399 personnel working tirelessly to contain the blaze.

Currently, containment is reported at 60%, with firefighters making steady progress despite challenging conditions.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire as crews from multiple agencies, including the Montecito Fire Department, continue their efforts to protect lives and property.

For more details, you can refer to the full story on The Sacramento Bee.

 

Photo Credit: Photo by the Montecito Fire Department

800 firefighters or more were working to contain the Mountain Fire on South Mountain in Ventura County, California, on Wednesday, according to fire officials.