The Canyon Fire, a rapidly spreading inferno in California, is leaving its mark on communities in the Los Angeles area. Thousands of residents find themselves under evacuation orders and warnings, according to reliable sources, namely Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger.
The local emergency proclamation issued by officials allows the county to expedite access to critical resources and circumvent bureaucratic red tape, thus enhancing firefighting and recovery efforts. According to the statement from Los Angeles County, the Canyon Fire has spread across Ventura and Los Angeles counties, consuming just under 5,000 acres in a matter of hours, with containment standing at 0% as reported by the Ventura County Fire Department.
Five zones in Los Angeles County are currently under evacuation orders, with 2,700 residents evacuated and 700 structures under threat from the relentless flames. In addition, six other zones in this county are under an evacuation warning, placing 1,400 residents and 5,000 structures at risk. Similar evacuation orders and warnings have also been issued in Ventura County.
“The issuance of this emergency proclamation is a crucial step in our fight against the Canyon Fire,” stated Supervisor Kathryn Barger. The emergency declaration grants authorities the flexibility to coordinate across agencies, mobilize additional firefighting personnel and equipment, and streamline procurement processes, in a bid to protect lives, homes, and critical infrastructure.
The blaze, which began its ravage on Thursday afternoon, is spreading east at a rapid pace, according to Cal Fire. Multiple strike teams of engines, hand crews, and dozers have been dispatched to reinforce the initial response, with 250 personnel and seven helicopters assigned to battle the flames.
As of Thursday evening, there have not been any residences damaged or reported injuries, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. However, officials urge residents in affected areas to remain vigilant, follow evacuation orders, and stay informed through official channels as the situation evolves.
This wildfire emerges on the heels of the Gifford Fire, which has consumed nearly 100,000 acres within the Los Padres National Forest in Solvang, California, according to Cal Fire. This inferno, the largest in the state this year, began on Aug. 1 and has since destroyed 99,232 acres and is 15% contained, according to an update from officials on Thursday evening.
