Ventura County has issued evacuation orders as a new wildfire continues to spread across California. Ventura now joins other areas in Los Angeles County that are under evacuation orders due to life-threatening conditions, as much of Southwest California faces extreme “fire danger,” according to officials.
The wildfires have already claimed at least 24 lives, with more than 12,300 structures destroyed in Los Angeles County, according to Cal Fire. Multiple evacuation zones remain in effect as the fires, particularly the Palisades Fire, continue to threaten lives and property.
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Southwest California is under Red Flag Warnings, indicating a high risk of rapid fire growth if a fire starts, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Four active fires are currently burning in LA and Ventura Counties: the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, Hurst Fire, and Auto Fire. While the Hurst Fire is 97% contained and the Auto Fire remains at 0% containment, it is important to note that the Auto Fire has not yet threatened any structures, as confirmed by the Ventura County Fire Department.
As for the Palisades and Eaton Fires, several areas remain under mandatory evacuation orders.
Fire Danger Intensifies
A “Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) Red Flag Warning” is set to begin Tuesday morning, highlighting the increased risks, including:
- Extreme fire behavior
- Rapid fire growth
- Power outages
- Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS)
- Downed trees
These conditions, coupled with gusty winds, are making Southern California especially vulnerable to wildfires. Strong winds are expected to continue through Wednesday, further fueling the spread of the flames across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.
Evacuation Zones and Curfews
The following zones are under mandatory evacuation orders for the Palisades Fire:
- DRY-U026-A
- LOS-Q0406-A
- LOS-Q0407
- LOS-Q0751
- (Multiple other zones are listed)
A full list of evacuation orders can be found on Cal Fire’s website.
The Palisades Fire areas are also under a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., per Cal Fire’s announcement.
Also Read – Search and Rescue Teams Join California Wildfire Recovery Efforts
Impact on UCLA
While UCLA students are not currently under an evacuation order, the university has acknowledged the challenges faced by students, staff, and the broader Bruin community. Chancellor Julio Frenk expressed support for the university’s members during this difficult time: “I know these are challenging days filled with uncertainty and worry, but the support and kindness across our Bruin community are truly uplifting.”
Eaton Fire
For the Eaton Fire, there are no curfew orders at this time. The following zones are under mandatory evacuation orders:
- ALD-ARROYOSECO
- ALD-CALAVERAS
- ALD-CANON
- (Other zones listed)
As with the Palisades Fire, evacuation shelters are available, and a full list of shelters for those fleeing the Eaton Fire can be found on Cal Fire’s website.
Residents in affected areas are urged to follow official evacuation orders and stay informed as conditions continue to evolve.
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