US: Crews continue emergency response to wildfire in Ventura County, California, as of early Nov. 8 /update 1

Crews continue working to contain the Mountain Fire burning in parts of Ventura County, California, as of early Nov. 8. The fire broke out early Nov. 6 between Balcom Canyon Road and Bradley Road in Somis and has spread rapidly amid high winds and dry conditions in the region. As of early Nov. 8, the fire has grown to around 8,290 hectares (20,485 acres) and is five percent contained. More than 2,400 firefighting personnel are on site tackling the blaze. The fire is threatening nearly 12,000 structures in the surrounding area and reports indicate at least 132 structures have been destroyed and 88 others damaged. At least five civilians and one firefighter have been injured by the fire. Red flag warnings remain in place for parts of the region through at least 11:00 Nov. 8 and further fire growth is possible in the coming hours and days.

Authorities have issued evacuation orders and warnings affecting more than 10,000 people in the vicinity of the fire. An evacuation shelter has been established at Padre Serra Parish, 5205 Upland Road, Camarillo. Dozens of road closures are also in effect in the vicinity of the fire. Full details on the latest status of evacuation orders and road closures can be found here. Unsafe Water Alerts have been issued in the Crestview and Pleasant Valley areas of Camarillo. At least 20 schools are closed in areas affected by the fire. Southern California Edison, Southern California's main electric provider, cut off power to nearly 70,000 customers across the region Nov. 6-7 due to the heightened risk of wildfires, including more than 26,000 customers in Ventura County.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate more communities depending on fire activity and the needs of response operators. Residents' return will probably disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Power outages are likely in affected areas. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall will likely contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.