A large brush fire burning north of Los Angeles has forced thousands of people to evacuate and is one of two major wildfires currently threatening California. The blaze, known as the Canyon fire, has spread across nearly 4,850 acres in Los Angeles and Ventura counties since it began Thursday afternoon. Fire officials say it is still 0% contained, leaving many communities on edge.
More than 4,000 residents have been ordered to leave their homes, while about 1,400 buildings are being closely monitored for damage. Firefighters are working hard as the fire moves east toward the town of Castaic in Los Angeles County. Throughout the night, aircraft dropped water and fire retardant to help slow the blaze and assist ground crews battling the flames.
Further north, another wildfire is burning across two counties and is now the largest in California this year. The Gifford Fire, which started on August 2, has already scorched over 99,000 acres in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. It is reported to be 15% contained so far. Strong winds—over 30 miles per hour for more than an hour—pushed the fire toward areas near Huasna and Willis Ranch. This caused new evacuation orders west of those locations in San Luis Obispo County. Thankfully, the rest of the fire area saw little activity overnight.
This big effort involves almost 3,500 firefighters, along with 19 helicopters and 243 engines working to control the Gifford Fire. Authorities have not yet determined what started this blaze.
Both fires highlight the continuing challenges California faces with wildfires, especially during dry and windy conditions. The communities nearby are staying alert and cooperating with evacuation orders to stay safe as crews battle the flames.