A major wildfire, dubbed the 'Post Fire', is tearing through Southern California, prompting Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency for Ventura County. The fast-moving blaze has already scorched more than 14,000 acres, driven by strong winds and dry conditions.
The fire erupted on Saturday afternoon near Interstate 5 in Gorman, approximately 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles. It has since expanded rapidly, consuming everything in its path and sending a massive plume of smoke visible across the region.
Mass Evacuations Underway
Emergency services have issued mandatory evacuation orders for areas west of Interstate 5 between Pyramid Lake and Gorman. This includes the Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area, where a major off-road event was taking place. Park officials successfully evacuated an estimated 1,200 people from the area.
Authorities have also shut down Pyramid Lake as a precautionary measure and are urging residents in threatened zones to leave immediately. An evacuation centre has been established at the Castaic Lake Recreation Area.
Firefighting Efforts and Challenges
Over 1,100 firefighters are currently battling the inferno, deploying air tankers and helicopters to douse the flames from above. However, their efforts are being severely hampered by powerful wind gusts, with speeds reaching up to 55 mph, which are fuelling the fire's rapid spread.
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) spokesperson Kenichi Haskett reported that the fire's growth has been 'explosive'. The blaze is currently exhibiting 'extreme fire behaviour', making containment exceptionally difficult. As of the latest reports, the fire is 0% contained.
Threat to Infrastructure and Power
The flames have already damaged important infrastructure, destroying at least one commercial property. A significant concern for officials is the proximity of the fire to power lines, generating stations, and transmission lines, raising the risk of widespread power outages.
Governor Newsom's emergency proclamation aims to streamline resources and provide necessary state assistance to the affected county. The situation remains volatile, with officials warning that conditions could worsen.
