By Ndujihe Clifford Chiebuka
A devastating wildfire raging outside Los Angeles has destroyed at least 132 homes and damaged 88 more, according to officials. The Mountain Fire near Camarillo has spread rapidly, fueled by hurricane-strength winds, forcing thousands to evacuate.
Key Developments:
- Over 130 homes lost, with 88 more damaged
- Thousands forced to flee, some with only minutes to gather belongings
- Fire has grown to over 20,000 acres, with 7% containment
- Ventura County Fire Chief Dustin Gardner reports firefighters have been on the frontlines for 36 hours straight
- California Governor Gavin Newsom declares state of emergency
Eyewitness Accounts:
Linda Fefferman, a resident, described her harrowing escape: “I knew I had to go when I smelled smoke… I went down to the Goodwill parking lot, watched the smoke, probably our own house burning. Nothing is left. It’s gone.”
Firefighting Efforts:
- 2,500 personnel engaged in the fight
- Crews using hose lines and bulldozers to defend homes and remove fuel
- Aircraft dropping water and retardant to stem the blaze
Weather Conditions:
- Hurricane-strength winds fueled the fire’s spread
- Winds dropped Friday, with no expected return for several days
Climate Change Impact:
Scientists warn that human-caused climate change increases the likelihood of catastrophic events like wildfires, drought, and strong winds.
Stay updated on the latest developments and follow evacuation orders from local authorities.
Source: PUNCH
