A fast-moving wildfire known as the Canyon Fire has triggered evacuation orders across parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties.
Since it started on Thursday, the fire has spread rapidly, burning over 5,000 acres. Officials report that the fire is 25% contained as of Friday.
Local authorities have issued a local emergency proclamation, which helps speed up the process of bringing in extra resources and support.
Over 2,700 people have already been evacuated, and about 700 homes are currently at risk. Five zones in Los Angeles County are under evacuation orders, while six more are under evacuation warnings.
Ventura County has also placed five zones under evacuation and issued warnings in two more areas.
Conditions remain dry and hot, which could make it harder to stop the fire from spreading.
On Thursday, the fire covered around 1,500 acres but tripled in size within 24 hours. While two small outbuildings have burned, no homes have been lost so far.
A shelter for displaced residents is now open at the College of the Canyons East Gymnasium in Santa Clarita.
Around 400 personnel, along with helicopters and ground crews, are working to control the fire.
The fire is moving eastward through dry grass and brush.
The cause of the Canyon Fire is still being investigated. Authorities are urging people in affected zones to stay alert and follow evacuation updates through official sources.
Meanwhile, California’s largest wildfire this year, the Gifford Fire near Solvang, has burned over 99,000 acres and is only 15% contained.