LOS ANGELES – Powerful Santa Ana winds near Los Angeles are driving some of the most important forest fire threats in years throughout southern california.

The relentless 50-70 mph wind The gusts have created a perfect storm of conditions, leading to rapid fire spread and widespread evacuations.

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These conditions led to the explosion of the destructive Mountain Fire in Ventura County on Wednesday. In a matter of hours, it consumed nearly 15,000 acres. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for parts of fortuneCamarillo, Moorpark and somísCalifornia.

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Officials say the Mountain Fire that broke out Wednesday morning in Ventura County has not yet been contained and has injured several people. At least 800 firefighters are on the scene, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.

Images released by the agency show firefighting efforts in Camarillo Heights.

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The fire had damaged several homes according to reports, but no deaths were reported.

Videos by Ventura County Supervisor Jeff Gorell shows the thick smoke in Camarillo. In another video you can see firefighters trying to control the fire.

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Firefighters continued their tireless fight against the flames into the night, using a combination of ground crews and night-flying helicopters. Hundreds of mutual aid crews across California continue to arrive on scene as the rapidly advancing fire has impacted numerous structures.

Damage estimates are expected to begin Thursday. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

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Another dangerous fire, the Broad Fire, burns in the Malibu area, threatening homes and business.

The FOX Forecast Center said Santa Ana winds peaked Wednesday morning, but periods of strong, gusty winds from the northeast to the east will continue into Thursday. While conditions on Thursday won’t be as extreme, they will still be very conducive to fire spread.

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The strongest gusts of 50 to 60 mph will occur along and below the coastal slopes of the mountains, including around the Mountain Fire. The lowest day humidity It will also be found near the fire and in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, where the National Weather Service issued a rare “particularly dangerous situation” fire weather warning.

The wildfires have also forced school closures and power outages. Smoke from the fires has also had a significant impact air qualityinciting health alerts for residents.