United States: Southern California wildfires persist Dec. 7 /update 5

Event

As of 13:00 (local time), on Thursday, December 7, wildfires were continuing 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 470 square kilometers (180 square miles) of land and destroying hundreds of buildings. Portions of Interstate 210 in the San Fernando Valley remain closed until further notice.

According to state officials, the fires, exacerbated by winds of up to 136 km/h (85 mph), were only 15 percent contained on Thursday afternoon. Furthermore, almost 9000 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, Imperial, and San Diego counties through at least Friday, December 8. 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.