United States: Fires continue to spread in southern California Dec. 6 /update 4

Event

As of 19:00 (local time), on Wednesday, December 6, wildfires continue to ravage Ventura and Los Angeles counties in California. More than 200,000 people have been forced to evacuate their homes, with fires scorching over 365 square kilometers (140 square miles) of land and destroying over 300 buildings. Fires also broke out on Wednesday in the Bel-Air neighborhood of Los Angeles, burning 475 acres (192 hectares) of land.

According to state officials, the fires, exacerbated by winds of up to 128 km/h (80 mph), were only five percent contained on Wednesday evening. Furthermore, thousands of homes in the area remain without electricity. While no fatalities have been reported, at least one firefighter has been injured in the blaze.

A red warning for fires (the highest level) is currently in effect in Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange, Riverside, and San Diego counties through Thursday, December 7, and over 265 schools in the area have been closed until Monday, December 11. Up-to-date information can be found on the website of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) and on Ventura county’s website.

Context

On December 4, wildfires broke out in Southern California as a result of strong Santa Ana winds in the region. According to officials, the flames broke out east of Santa Paula, approximately 95 km (60 mi) northwest of Los Angeles.

Southern California generally experiences its worst wildfires between October and December, due to the increased strength of the Santa Ana winds. Rugged terrain and dry conditions - which have been exacerbated by years of drought - render it particularly difficult to contain fires in the region once they have broken out.

Advice

Individuals are advised to exercise caution when traveling in areas affected by the wildfires, to adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and to keep abreast of the situation. Individuals should anticipate transportation disruptions throughout the area.