Return of strong winds to Los Angeles threatens area's fight against fires

A new fire erupted in Ventura County Monday night and was burning through the Santa Clara riverbed as strong winds threatened the region.

The Auto Fire was first reported around 7 p.m. between Victoria Avenue and Ventura Boulevard.

Forward progress was stopped at around 11:45 p.m. and was mapped at 55 acres with 0% containment.

Crews were forced to battle the fire as strong winds fueled its rapid growth.

At least 100 Ventura City Fire, Oxnard Fire and Federal Fire Ventura County firefighters were actively working to mop up hotspots and increase containment.

The fire was contained to the river bottom.

Northbound traffic of the 101 Freeway was shut down around 9 p.m. as the fire continued to spread closer to Victoria Avenue.

The Auto Fire burned near the River Ridge Golf Club and the 101 Freeway, but VCFD said it was not a threat to any structures.

An evacuation order was issued for the Santa Clara River between the 101 Freeway and Victoria Avenue. No residential areas were placed under evacuation.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

A new fire erupted in Ventura County Monday night and was burning through the Santa Clara riverbed as strong winds threatened the region.

The Los Angeles Rams had an emotional opening to their wild-card playoff game Monday, sending a message to their hometown.

Retired Super Bowl champion Andrew Whitworth gave a brief speech before the game, thanking the Los Angeles firefighters for their hard work. He echoed the message of the night: "L.A. Strong".

"We will rebuild L.A. hand in hand, together. For as long as it takes and whatever it takes," said Whitworth.

Before the national anthem, there was a moment of silence to honor the firefighters who are on the front lines working to combat the wildfires.

Rachel Platten sang "Fight Song" to open up the night as an "LA Together" banner was seen over the fans with images of firefighters.

The Rams relocated their game against the Minnesota Vikings nearly 400 miles east to the State Farm Stadium due to the wildfires.

Air quality is a big concern for everyone in Southern California, even for those who don't live near fire zones.

We have answers from experts regarding particulate matter when the air quality index is good and what protection you'll need when sifting through a fire-damaged home.

Click here for the full story and report on air quality issues due to the SoCal fires.

Air quality is a big concern for everyone in Southern California, even for those who don't live near fire zones. We answer your questions here.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has proposed that the state provide an additional $2.5 billion in funding for its firestorm response and recovery efforts.

Newsom signed a proclamation on Monday that expands the scope of the state legislature's current special session "to further boost response and initial recovery efforts for Los Angeles," his office said in a press release.

The governor is requesting $1 billion to go toward the emergency response, cleanup and recovery in the Los Angeles wildfires, as well as $1.5 billion in funding to prepare for the threats of firestorms and other natural disasters, according to the proclamation.

Speaker of the Assembly Robert Rivas said in a statement that the assembly members "are listening to their residents and will bring feedback to the discussion as we consider the Governor's proposal."