Newsom declares state of emergency over California fire that forced thousands to evacuate

California's Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday declared a state of emergency for Ventura County, after a wildfire blazed through more than 20,400 acres and forced thousands of residents to evacuate.

The fire, which began on Wednesday and spread quickly because of high winds, has already destroyed 132 structures and damaged another 88 buildings, authorities told CNN.

At least 10 people have been injured in the fire, which officials have dubbed the "Mountain Fire," but most injuries are non-life-threatening and related to smoke inhalation.

“This is a dangerous fire that’s spreading quickly and is threatening lives," Newsom said in a statement. "California has mobilized state resources, including personnel, engines and aircraft from CAL FIRE and Cal OES, to protect communities as our fire and emergency response teams work around the clock to combat this fire. Stay safe and remain alert for instructions from local authorities as dangerous fire weather conditions continue.”

The Ventura County sheriff's department said it evacuated 400 homes overall, and 250 people chose to stay back and defend their homes from the fire. Another 800 homes were already empty when they arrived.

The cause of the Mountain Fire is not clear so far, but it's only at 5% containment as of press time. 

Misty Severi is an evening news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.