A fast-moving wildfire in Ventura County, California, forced thousands of residents to evacuate Thursday as firefighters battled to contain the rapidly spreading blaze.
The fire, known as the Canyon Fire, ignited early in the afternoon near Lake Piru, roughly 60 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Initially reported at about 30 acres, it quickly expanded to an estimated 1,050 acres within hours, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.
The blaze erupted on a day of extreme heat in Southern California, with temperatures near the fire zone expected to approach 100 degrees. The National Weather Service warned that dry conditions could accelerate the spread of the flames.
Fire crews remained on the scene through the evening, working to protect homes and structures while evacuation orders remained in effect for nearby communities.
