Driven by Santa Ana winds, Ventura County brush fire grows

Fire officials have launched a “full out attack” on a multi-acre brush fire that is being stoked by stiff Santa Ana winds in rural areas of Ventura County.

Officials say the fire, which broke out Thursday afternoon near the intersection of Foothill and Aliso Canyon roads, has grown as large as 20 acres.

“Right now the fire is in the brush,” Ventura County Fire Department spokesman Bill Nash said. “No structures have been threatened or damaged.”

About 100 firefighters are on the scene and are being assisted by two water-dropping helicopters, but Nash said the 15 to 20 mph winds remain a concern.

He said it is unclear how much of the fire has been contained, but added that the multiple departments are on scene and are making “good progress.”

There have been no reported injuries, Nash said, but some ranch houses and orchards remain in danger.

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