Ventura County wildfire: Several injured as mountain fire burns at least 1,500 acres near Moorpark – WATCH LIVE

MOORPARK, Calif. (KABC) — A massive bushfire broke out near Moorpark on Wednesday morning, leaving several injured and forcing evacuations, amid high winds that prompted red flag warnings across the region.

In an update shortly before 11 a.m., the Ventura County An unknown number of people were taken to hospitals, according to fire officials. Their condition and the nature of their injuries were unknown.

The so-called Mountain Fire broke out near the 7900 block of Balcom Canyon Road and Bradley Road and later jumped Highway 118.

“Evacuations and road closures are underway,” the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department said in a statement. “Avoid the area.”

There were no immediate reports of structural damage, but several were threatened, fire officials said.

Shortly before 9:30 a.m., fire officials described the incident as a two-alarm fire that burned at least 250 acres. Two hours later, at least 1,500 hectares had been scorched.

“Strong winds in the area are contributing to challenging conditions,” the agency said on social media, adding that 140 firefighters were on the scene.

Nearly 60 fire engines were deployed. Helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft were initially called to the fire zone, but extreme wind conditions later grounded the aircraft, preventing them from assisting in the firefighting efforts.

“Ground crews, helicopters and mutual aid teams are actively working to protect lives and property,” the fire department said.

The cause of the fire was unknown.

Details on evacuation zones and road closures are available at www.vcemergency.com.

DEVELOPMENT: More details will be added to this report as they become available.