Several injured as brush fire explodes to at least 1,500 acres in Moorpark area: WATCH LIVE
MOORPARK, Calif. (KABC) -- A massive brush fire erupted Wednesday morning near Moorpark, resulting in several injuries and prompting evacuations amid strong winds that triggered red flag warnings throughout the region.
In an update shortly before 11 a.m., the Ventura County Fire Department said an unspecified number of people were transported to hospitals. Their conditions and the nature of their injuries were unknown.
The so-called Mountain Fire broke out near the 7900 block of Balcom Canyon Road and Bradley Road and later jumped across Highway 118.
"Evacuations and road closures are in progress," the Ventura County Sheriff's Department said in a statement. "Avoid the area."
Aerial video from AIR7 HD showed at least three homes burning. Just before noon, firefighters were racing to rescue multiple residents who were trapped on Kingsgrove Road in the community of Somis.
Shortly before 9:30 a.m., the Fire Department described the incident as a two-alarm fire that burned at least 250 acres. Two hours later, at least 1,500 acres had been scorched.
"Strong winds in the area are contributing to challenging conditions," the agency said on social media, adding that 140 firefighters were on the scene.
Nearly 60 fire apparatus were deployed. Helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft were initially summoned to the fire zone, but extreme wind conditions later grounded the aircraft, leaving them unable to assist in the firefighting efforts.
"Ground crews, helicopters and mutual aid resources are actively working to protect lives and property," the Fire Department said.
The cause of the fire was unknown.
Details about evacuation zones and road closures was available at www.vcemergency.com. An information hotline was established at (805) 465-6650.
