Thousands of people on the run: Severe forest fire ravages California
Los Angeles - A fast-moving fire has driven thousands of people from their homes in southern California .
The fire department in Ventura County spoke of a "very dangerous" fire . Residents should follow evacuation orders, said Sheriff Jim Fryhoff at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon (local time).
Within a few hours, the so-called "Mountain Fire" had spread to an area of more than 40 square kilometers near the town of Camarillo, about 80 kilometers northwest of Los Angeles.
The authorities warned of strong Santa Ana winds, which mainly occur in Southern California in the fall and winter. The dry winds would exacerbate the extreme fire danger, they said. Added to this are persistent summer temperatures and dry vegetation, which ignites easily.
Californian Governor Gavin Newsom has requested emergency assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to fight the fire.
Over 3,500 homes and businesses are threatened in the affected region, according to a statement.
Residents in hospital
The extent of the damage was initially unknown. They were able to rescue people from their homes, said fire chief Trevor Johnson. Two residents were taken to hospital due to possible smoke inhalation. Thick smoke covered the region.
Pictures showed charred cars and burning houses.