Additional Coverage:
A wildfire erupted in Southern California on Wednesday, fueled by strong winds.
The Mountain Fire has consumed over 14,000 acres, destroying homes and forcing evacuations. Firefighters rushed to rescue residents, with some using fire engines to transport people to safety.
The fire’s rapid spread prompted the closure of State Route 118 and slowed traffic on U.S. 101 due to smoke. Spot fires ignited miles away, driven by strong winds.
Officials made over 14,000 contacts with residents, urging them to leave the area. Firefighters described the blaze as challenging and dangerous, with limited visibility due to smoke and downed power lines.
Another wildfire, the Broad Fire, broke out in Malibu, damaging three homes but with no injuries reported.
Santa Ana winds, a California weather phenomenon, contributed to the fire’s intensity. High wind gusts of up to 85 mph were recorded in the area.