As Southern California grapples with an unrelenting fire season, Folsom firefighters have joined the battle against the fierce Mountain Fire that has ravaged Ventura County. This massive blaze, fanned by powerful Santa Ana winds, has scorched over 20,000 acres, destroyed more than 130 structures, and forced thousands to flee, with Folsom firefighters now among the first responders working to contain the destructive flames.
The Folsom firefighters, deployed on California Office of Emergency Services Engine 8431, are among the numerous strike teams assisting Ventura County agencies on the front lines. They have been tasked with structure defense and life-safety operations, as the fire’s trajectory continues to endanger densely populated areas. Their deployment highlights the coordination between local and state agencies to mobilize resources quickly in response to such large-scale natural disasters.
The Mountain Fire, which ignited early Wednesday morning near South Mountain in Moorpark, quickly escalated to a major wildfire. Within hours, it had consumed over 10,000 acres and continued its rapid spread, driven by dry conditions and fierce winds that complicated containment efforts. By Friday morning, Cal Fire reported that the blaze had grown to 20,596 acres, with only 7% containment achieved. Over 2,400 firefighters and first responders from various agencies statewide, including Folsom’s, are engaged in an all-out effort to protect lives and property.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed an emergency proclamation to support firefighting resources and provide aid to those affected. At a press conference Thursday, officials confirmed that 132 structures, mostly homes, had been destroyed and an additional 88 had sustained damage. The fire’s relentless march has necessitated mandatory evacuations across several communities, including Camarillo, Somis, and parts of Moorpark. More than 14,000 residents have been forced to evacuate, while Ventura County officials warn that ongoing extreme fire danger remains.
In addition to the firefighting efforts, authorities are grappling with challenges presented by the severe weather. Santa Ana winds, with gusts reaching up to 39 mph in Moorpark and Simi Valley, have created a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” Red Flag warning, an advisory issued only during the most hazardous fire conditions. Though winds were forecasted to calm somewhat by the weekend, the dry vegetation, after two years of above-average rainfall, has left the terrain highly flammable.
Emergency services have set up an evacuation center in Camarillo, while shelters are accommodating those displaced by the blaze. Thousands more residents remain under evacuation orders, and authorities are urging everyone in impacted areas to be prepared to leave if necessary. Power shutoffs have affected large areas, and dozens of schools have closed due to the poor air quality and potential safety risks.