Home › News › Other News
Fires threaten homes in Santa Rosa Valley, Piru and Fillmore
Complete fire coverage
You can find more stories, videos, slideshows, resources and more in our special fire coverage section.
Enter now »
VIDEOS
 C-130 retardant drop  Ranch fire clean-up  Ranch fire  Nightsky fire  Brushfire in Malibu SLIDE SHOWS:  Area fires  Reader submitted photos Submit your photos |
YOUR PHOTOS
Reader photos of wind damage and fires (NOTE: This is now a slide show.)
View now »
Post your photos »
STORY TOOLS 
More from Other NewsTwo fires are threatening county homes and have led officials to evacuate areas of the Santa Rosa Valley, Piru and Fillmore.
The fires have coupled with heavy winds to bring thick, choking smoke to many areas of the county, much of it from a fire near Castaic that officials are worried may make it's way into Ventura County and the town of Piru.
One home has been damaged and 200 others are threatened in the Santa Rosa Valley as firefighters battle a blaze that started this morning.
Fire officials are recommending evacuations in the Lexington community in the Santa Rosa Valley due to a fire there that broke out late this morning.
The Lexington Community include Nightsky Drive, Riverrun Lane, Knob Lane, Crestline Drive, Lexington Hills Land and Ripple Creek lane.
The fire started at about 11 a.m. on Nightsky Drive had burned 40 acres and was 30 percent contained by 4 p.m. Fire officials expect the fire to be fully contained by 7 p.m.
The roof of one home on Presilla Road caught fire, but officials said at 4:10 p.m. that the home was not severly damaged.
Firefighters were battling a fire that had moved west of Piru toward Fillmore Sunday night, burning more than 2,000 acres and triggering evacuations.
The fire that began Saturday near Castaic Lake was north of Lake Piru in a an area known as Blue Point campground early Sunday evening, said Ventura County Fire Department information officer Nick Cleary. Residents of Piru Canyon were being recommended to evacuate. There were also precautionary evacuations for homes in Fillmore and Piru that bordered on wilderness areas.
"It's crossed the county line," Cleary said, noting the fire was being pushed west. "They're concerned that it could burn toward Fillmore, Piru and Santa Paula."
A shelter had been set up at Fillmore Veterans Memorial Building at 511 Second Street. Livestock was being taken at the Ventura County Fairgrounds and small animals at the Ventura County Animal Shelter in Camarillo.
Cleary said no injuries had been reported and that it was impossible to tell if any structures had been damaged because the fire was in inaccessible areas.
Area residents said they were wary but not yet alarmed.
"I feel very uncomfortable but safe," said Janet Bergamo, president of the Piru Neighborhood Council. "It's very disturbing. I had a tree blow down in my yard. It missed my car by an inch."
Thomas Rodriguez, a custodian at Piru School, held up a phone so a reporter could hear the winds whistling at gale force. He said he seen about eight fire engines and a bulldozer but also noted that things actually looked better late Sunday afternoon than earlier in the day.
About 320 people were fighting the fire in efforts coordinated by Ventura and Los Angeles county fire departments and by the U.S. Forest Service. Heli-tankers were dropping water and hand crews also were at work.
Cleary said people in Fillmore and Piru should be clearing brush from around their homes and organizing their exit strategies.
"Just be ready," he said, noting that the rash of firefighters had creating a juggling act for fire departments.
Ventura County Fire Capt. Barry Parker said the fire threats throughout the county would remain high as long as the Santa Ana winds continue to blow. The gusts are expected to continue today and conditions will be ever drier.
"Expect conditions to be the same if not worse," he said.
Smoke from the fires has led the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District to issue an air quality advisory for particles due to smoke and blowing dust.
"The blowing smoke is due to mini-wildfires in and around Ventura County. If you are experiencing respiratory effects you may want to remain inside, reduce physical activities, and or see a doctor if necessary," the VCAPCD wrote on its Web site.
Ventura County firefighters have also had their hands full putting out small brush fires, said Ventura County Fire Department spokesman Bill Nash.
"We've been running like crazy this morning," Nash said.
A fire near Moorpark started at 7 a.m. south of Tierra Rejada Road and north of Moorpark Road and was fully contained by 8:42 a.m.
But the Nightsky fire broke out at around 11 a.m. and it's unknown if those fires are connected.
Two other fires, one near Guiberson Road in Fillmore and another on near South Mountain Road in Santa Paula, were doused quickly, but firefighters are still on scene mopping up and watching for hot spots, Nash said.
Despite the remote locations of those fires, Nash said the department has responded with heavy resources.
"We've been planning for this event for several days now," Nash said.
There were also dozens of calls for downed trees and other wind-related damage, Nash said.
There have also been reports of scattered power outages around the county.
The National Weather Service in Oxnard has issued high wind warning for the county with winds up to 80 miles per hour expected in the mountains and possible gusts up to 100 miles per hour. The "strong damaging winds" are expected to continue through Tuesday, though lulls are expected in late afternoon and early evening hours of each day, the weather service officials said.
Evacuations have been recommended in areas of the Santa Rosa Valley, Piru and Fillmore as two fires are threatening homes in those areas, fire officials said.
Fire officials are recommending evacuations in the Lexington community in the Santa Rosa Valley due to a fire there that broke out late this morning.
The Lexington Community include Nightsky Drive, Riverrun Lane, Knob Lane, Crestline Drive, Lexington Hills Land and Ripple Creek lane.
The fire started at about 11 a.m. on Nightsky Drive and was 20 percent contained by 2:15 p.m. and was expected to be fully contained before nightfall, said Capt. Ron Oatman with the Ventura County Fire Department.
A fire that started near Castaic, known as the Ranch Fire, has pushed over the county line north of Lake Piru. Officials are evacuating residents from Piru Canyon and there are precautionary evacuations taking place in Piru in Fillmore.
The Ranch Fire broke out late Saturday and has consumed about 1500 acres in northeast Los Angeles County. The fire is burning southwest pushed by 20-30 mph winds with gusts to 60 mph. The terrain is rugged with medium to heavy chaparral brush typical of Southern California. This area has not burned for approximately 40 years, fire officials said.
Ventura County firefighters have also had their hands full putting out small brush fires, said Ventura County Fire Department spokesman Bill Nash.
"We've been running like crazy this morning," Nash said.
A fire near Moorpark started at 7 a.m. south of Tierra Rejada Road and north of Moorpark Road and was fully contained by 8:42 a.m.
But the Nightsky fire broke out at around 11 a.m. and it's unknown if those fires are connected.
Two other fires, one near Guiberson Road in Fillmore and another on near South Mountain Road in Santa Paula, were doused quickly, but firefighters are still on scene mopping up and watching for hot spots, Nash said.
Despite the remote locations of those fires, Nash said the department has responded with heavy resources.
"We've been planning for this event for several days now," Nash said.
There were also dozens of calls for downed trees and other wind-related damage, Nash said.
There have also been reports of scattered power outages around the county.
The National Weather Service in Oxnard has issued high wind warning for the county with winds up to 80 miles per hour expected in the mountains and possible gusts up to 100 miles per hour. The "strong damaging winds" are expected to continue through Tuesday, though lulls are expected in late afternoon and early evening hours of each day, the weather service officials said.
Posted by bmclean , Moderator, on October 21, 2007 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I've got palm frawns by the dozen in my yard and my dog is climbing the walls. Let us here at VenturaCountyStar.com know what you're experiencing. And if you've got photos of damage in your area, post them on VenturaCountyStar.com/yourphotos and we'll add them to this story.
Bruce McLean
Posted by Nosmo_King on October 21, 2007 at 8:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
when I first looked out the window at daybreak there was a small fire on south mountain here in Santa Paula, the sheriffs helicopter was out in this wind. It seems the fire is out now.
Posted by christafrankmiller on October 21, 2007 at 8:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
out here at Pt. Mugu, I see big tree branches down and stuff blown over and down all down my street. my Halloween decos were blown all over the place so at 5 this morning I had to get pick them up and put them in the garage and on the porch. even our patio furn was blown over and our big b-ball hoop too!! we were going to go to the pumpkin patch but i changed my mind- the kids get croup when they go out in this weather.
Posted by annabanana2 on October 21, 2007 at 9:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
We were awaken by our neighbors early this morning because Rabbit Hill in Newbury Park was on fire and our power was out for quite a while as well; power has been restored...Thanks Edison :)
Posted by gr8fulgirl on October 21, 2007 at 10:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The winds are just starting to show themselves here off the avenue, it was calm and cool until about 45 mintues ago. Now there are little dust clouds starting to form on the street and leaves are starting to be blown up off the ground.
Posted by mac94 on October 21, 2007 at 10:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)
What is the house that's burning in Malibu?
Posted by Colorblind on October 21, 2007 at 10:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Big dust clouds through River Park crossing the 101 south of Santa Clara overpass.
Posted by gr8fulgirl on October 21, 2007 at 10:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Castle Kashan is burning, they said it was the Hodge castle earlier but I think it's the same one.
Posted by kjwaters98 on October 21, 2007 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Bruce:
Chris Segal, one of your part-time web journalists, has been posting all morning from Pepperdine. The website is "graphic.pepperdine.edu"
Posted by mmccarthy on October 21, 2007 at 10:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
There is a tree branch down blocking one of the lanes on Mission Oaks Blvd in Camarillo as you head down the hill towards the high school. My parents reported that neighbors' fences are blowing down in their area and I know at my apartment complex, window screens have been blown out. Fences were also being blown down and tree branches were all over the parking lot of Padre Serra Parish in Camarillo. I'll try to get pictures of any other damages I come across today
Posted by trek_queen on October 21, 2007 at 10:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It got windy when night fell here in west-end Simi but overnight around 4am, it woke us up just lashing and howling. Haven't seen anymore smoke from the Moorpark fire not far from us. However, a ton of sirens, water dropping planes, helicopters just blew through here on Madera sounding like they were in a hurry to somewhere else. Our hillsides are simply ready to just combust if something starts here.
Posted by SummerSun on October 21, 2007 at 11:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I have many friends in Malibu, who are evacuated, one is coming up to spend the night with me. Another friend has weddings and catered events at Lillies (Houge) castle in Malibu, this is a true loss.
Posted by ItsMyOpinion on October 21, 2007 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
In our marina in Oxnard, boats are rocking and boat owners who visit less frequently are showing up to check that their boat is securely tied and nothing is loose on deck. Halyards are snapping and there is plenty of clatter going on. Lots of dust has already blown in. Soon, we expect to have ash join the dust. Palm fronds are all over the streets, on walkways, and in parking lots. Satellite signal goes out continuously so news is hard to follow. I also keep losing my wireless Internet connection! We can smell the smoke much stronger now. Bad conditions for those of us with dust/ash allergies! I think the gusts are getting stronger.
Posted by meleemel on October 21, 2007 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The fence between my house and my next door neighbor's blew down. Luckily he's a neighbor I like, so I don't mind sharing back yards for a while! :)
Posted by eitman on October 21, 2007 at 11:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Over 40 units on the ridge between Moorpark and Santa Rosa Valley. They knocked down the Peach Hill blaze earlier. Looks like Nightsky Dr. flared a little while ago. Wind is gusting incredibly. The helicopter pilots are amazing.
Posted by moorparkjames on October 21, 2007 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
In Thousand Oaks last night we seemed to be observing effects from two fires. There was a ghost moon to the west as the smoke from the Malibu fire was visible in the moonlight, and we smelled smoke, probably from the Castaic fire blowing in our general direction. We awoke this morning to find a sizable branch down in the yard, and our church meetings were shortened to a half an hour, as that's all the battery power the emergency P.A system could provide as we sat in the dark in our chapel.
Posted by baitsoaker on October 21, 2007 at 12:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
East Ventura is getting pounded. We've had very strong gusts all morning, that blew my BBQ over and destroyed my patio table. Dusty and smoke smelling air is making it all that much worse. My neighbor's Halloween decorations were finally found about a block down the street.
Posted by Tom_Johnston on October 21, 2007 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
yes, East Ventura is getting a lot of wind and in the last 10 minutes or so, I can smell smoke...and the sky is getting smoky...so much for mowing the lawn today!
Posted by cowchip on October 21, 2007 at 12:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The sky over the mountains North of Camarillo looks orange...where is that fire burning? I live just over the ridge and am worried.
Posted by joentascha on October 21, 2007 at 12:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I live on the south side of Mt. Cross Lutheran Church located just by Crestview and Las Posas in Camarillo. We think the fire might be onthe other side of the estates out by the 118. This is to the north of our home. We are hearing quite a few sirens in the distance. As I am typing I am hearing another siren. Does anyone live around there??
Posted by cmnelson7890 on October 21, 2007 at 1:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We live by the Mary Star of the Sea on Plesant Valley in Oxnard and the smell Smoke from the South Hills in Santa Paul and Fillmore is very stong and it is getting darker toward Ventura area.
I pray that everyone stays Safe.
Posted by Jacksprat on October 21, 2007 at 1:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Pray for the fire fighters, they have a job on their hand and I am sure your prayers will not hurt. Check if there near you and you can do any thing for them, maybe cold water.
Posted by trek_queen on October 21, 2007 at 1:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Trees and braches are down everywhere in west Simi. Our neighbor's 15ft tree is uprooted and on its side in the front yard!
Posted by cowchip on October 21, 2007 at 1:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Joentascha, I live just about 1 mile directly to the East of you off of Mission Drive. I guess we would be ok, ultimately...I hope. I just worry what would happen if a fire were to come over the hill. My next door neighbor is a firefighter for LA County. I guess he's off saving other people's property right now...thank goodness for guys like him!
Posted by joentascha on October 21, 2007 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
My friend's husband is a firefighter for the Orange County Fire Authority, she just called and said that he is on standbye to come up here. She said that alot of the other stations in that area have been activated.
Posted by spudman on October 21, 2007 at 1:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
East Ventura: Very Smokey and dark out here. Is there a fire close by?
Posted by christafrankmiller on October 21, 2007 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
GOD BE WITH EVERYONE TODAY... ESPECIALLY OUR BRAVE FIREFIGHTERS!!! BE CAREFUL!!
my thoughts and prayers are with everyone today!! we have dark, smoky skies clear out here at point mugu. i can smell the fires and all my windows and doors are closed!! so much for going to the pumpkin patch huh?!?
Posted by Mark_Smith on October 21, 2007 at 1:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Any updates on the Nightsky fire? All I can seem to get is Malibu, Malibu and more Malibu. These news folks should realize that there are others that live in Southern California besides just the people in Malibu.
This is about the best information that I can get.
Posted by gr8fulgirl on October 21, 2007 at 1:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't know where the fire near Ventura is but we keep getting darker and darker smoke here off the avenue near Stanly. Anyone have any ideas?
Posted by rsweatt on October 21, 2007 at 1:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
East Ventura - Telephone and Johnson...visibility is really bad. People with asthma be careful. Stay inside if you can. Me and my dog are staying inside. My thoughts and prayers are to the firefighters. My dad is a retired firefighter.
Posted by ted122 on October 21, 2007 at 1:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm new to the area and live in Moorpark. Is there anyplace to get information other than the local news channels. Like Mark said above, it is all about Malibu, Malibu and Malibu. The sky is getting darker over here and not any coverage on where it is at. We are not the rich and famous but we still need a bit of coverage.
Posted by cowchip on October 21, 2007 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
STAR, can you let us know what is going on, PLEASE!
Posted by AutumnRose on October 21, 2007 at 1:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Mark Smith -
I understand your frustration with the L.A. news! Try KVTA - 1520 AM radio. Rich Gualano is doing fire info updates on the hour and the half hour and sometimes in between. It varies. This is mostly the local fire info (Ventura County). He's always on the case when something is happening in our area. Great guy!
Also, KVTA.com is being updated frequently.
Hope this helps -
Posted by Tom_Johnston on October 21, 2007 at 1:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
one good source of basic info is the Ventura County Fire Dept website, use Google to find it. At the site there is on the left a link called "Fireline" click it and you can see calls as the come in. Not much else but it's something.
Posted by DamnSkippy on October 21, 2007 at 1:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i live in the hills that border Moorpark & Santa Rosa. I am seeing one water dropping helecopter and 2 fixed wing aircraft. Can not see flames from the street as of yet but we have had one VCFD squad roll down the street as well as a sheriff. Hope someone can give us a little more info on the situation as the VC fire website is very vauge. No coverage on the news yet but I am sure we are too small to get any news coverage.
Posted by s_j_stone on October 21, 2007 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I live in the hills in Camarillo and it is black behind us - cant find any information on what is happening all the news channels are about MAlibu and its all the same information repeated, how about something new and include the rest of us in Southern California or arent we that important!!
Posted by Mark_Smith on October 21, 2007 at 1:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am intermittently hearing helicopters from my home in the SRV. I drove east down Santa Rosa Road to East Las Posas Road, at which point all traffic except for residents of the very local area, were not allowed in. The Sheriff's Deputy indicated that the fire was at Presilla Road (near Lexington Hills Drive and Nightsky Drive in the SRV). Santa Rosa Road is closed between East Las Posas and Moorpark Road.
Posted by husky on October 21, 2007 at 1:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I believe there is a fire burning in the Santa Rosa Valley headed toward Camarillo. This may be the smoke we are seeing from Camarillo to Ventura??
Posted by res1q7et on October 21, 2007 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In Santa Paula-the sky is very dark and smoky. Is the Santa Rosa Valley fire causing all of this? Or Castaic? Or is there another fire nearby?
Posted by epee on October 21, 2007 at 1:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The smoke over Camarillo and Ventura is from the Castaic fire - the plume can be seen on the weather satellite photo blowing directly over us. Ash fall and smoke in Buena High area.
Posted by Tom_Johnston on October 21, 2007 at 1:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
one good source of basic info is the Ventura County Fire Dept website, use Google to find it. At the site there is on the left a link called "Fireline" click it and you can see calls as the come in. Not much else but it's something.
Another good info site, though its just about weather is the "Weather Underground" site, no, not the student terroist group, this a professional site about weather. But, if you enter your zip code and get a page specific to you, scroll to the bottom, you'll find links to amateur weather stations, possibly in your area. KVENTUS5 is a particularly good one. Google "Weather Underground" or click this link (if it works here)
Posted by Mark_Smith on October 21, 2007 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
AutumnRose:
Thanks for the information.
Posted by kbaker4us on October 21, 2007 at 1:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Here is the web site for the VC fire department and it has a link to LA FD for updates on fires in that county.
Posted by RelaxPeople on October 21, 2007 at 2:01 p.m.
(This thread was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by Tom_Johnston on October 21, 2007 at 2:04 p.m.
(This thread was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by DamnSkippy on October 21, 2007 at 2:04 p.m.
(This thread was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 2:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I was playing with my pups and a piece of someones corrigated roofing hit one of my dogs. The wind also snapped one of our aspen sapplings.
*REMOVED BY MODERATOR*
Good day to all! And may the wind be blowing at your back!
Posted by ted122 on October 21, 2007 at 2:10 p.m.
(This thread was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by k.adalian on October 21, 2007 at 2:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Listen to KCLU, FM 88.3 and FM 102.3 (I think for Santa Barbara area), the award winning NPR station at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks for news on the fires affecting Ventura County. They just broke into their Blues Shack programming to report on the fires. They've also won awards for reporting on past fires like the ones in the Simi area in 2003.
Posted by crystalle63 on October 21, 2007 at 2:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Does anyone know anything about the Chatsworth fire? Channel 7 keeps mentioning it, but doesn't give any details. We're in East Simi, so some info would be much appreciated.
Posted by rsweatt on October 21, 2007 at 2:14 p.m.
(This thread was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by mac94 on October 21, 2007 at 2:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm over near Rose and Gonzales and it's so dark here we need to turn on lights to see.
Posted by k.adalian on October 21, 2007 at 2:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Also, I was just inside a store in Port Hueneme and the air quality here is so bad, my eyes are burning.
Posted by christafrankmiller on October 21, 2007 at 2:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i cant believe how dark it is out here- and we are right on the ocean so we arent usually affected by the smoke, but its bad out here and its over 80 already!! i cant imagine being in the middle of it! thank you all for all of your updates! i am not finding anything on the radio, but kahy is doing updates as they have info. we are staying inside all day but man this is rough with 5 kids under 9 and keeping all the doors and windows closed! im just thankful we have a house!! again, thanks for keeping us updated!!
thoughts and prayers for the firefighters and their families as well as the people living in these areas!!
Posted by mac94 on October 21, 2007 at 2:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The Star's story was ''updated'' at 2:03. At that time we could barely see outside because of the smoke, yet the Star story still only talks about the Malibu fire. Where is the smoke over Oxnard and Ventura coming from????
Posted by Ventura_fan on October 21, 2007 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The sky is a weird dark orange in East Ventura. I went out to retrieve something and the blowing ash got in my eyes and was very painful. I don't recommend anyone going outside. I have lived here 22 years and have never seen it this bad.
All the cars have their lights on.
Posted by joentascha on October 21, 2007 at 2:26 p.m.
(This thread was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by silverwingedangel on October 21, 2007 at 2:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We have a tree infront of our house and split in two about 4am. Half crashed onto our house and yard (it's tearing off shingles as I type) and the other half threatened to fall on my car, only being held up by a scrap of branch that hadn't broken all the way through. Luckily my car was moved but our 17 year old tree has to be cut down and estimates are $600-$800 to remove it. Several other trees have fallen or split all over my neighborhood... Only more windy nights to come.
Posted by joentascha on October 21, 2007 at 2:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Cowchip..How is it looking over there? Everything over here is taking on a orange hue. When I look out my daughter's window towards Mt.Cross I cannot see anything. The sky is getting really dark. A huge cloud is over our house now.
Posted by amy on October 21, 2007 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In the time it's take you'all to bash Pier, the smoke has hit Ojai fully. Lots of ash but we have very little wind here. I'm guessing the fire is in Fillmore???? Thank you all for your helpful updates. The TV news is now focussing on the Agua Dulce and Malibu fires only.
Posted by Mark_Smith on October 21, 2007 at 2:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
KVTA reporting that Santa Rosa Road is open again.
http://www.kvta.com/default.asp
Keep safe out there.
Posted by cowchip on October 21, 2007 at 2:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Joentascha, it looks crazy! I just stepped outside and took some pictures. When I looked at them on my computer, it looked like it was night! I was outside for less than 30 seconds and my eyes were full of ash.
Posted by Ventura_fan on October 21, 2007 at 2:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
All our streetlights just went on.
Posted by kfisher on October 21, 2007 at 2:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In East Ventura (Telephone and Petit) we have almost complete darkness now. The sky is dark orange-red and the smoke is leaking through the windows. It's hard not to be worried about our personal safety and the safety of our children.
Thanks to everyone who has posted links to other sites providing important information! God bless our firefighters and everyone in the fires' paths.
Posted by husky on October 21, 2007 at 2:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Most of the smoke is from the Piru fire but there are rumors of small fires in Camarillo. The one off Santa Rosa Rd, near the Somis Nut House, and maybe one in the heights of Camarillo. None seem to be out of control. Winds are much calmer now.
Posted by mac94 on October 21, 2007 at 2:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you, Star for the update.
Posted by epee on October 21, 2007 at 2:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Inciweb has the Castiac ("Ranch") fire at 1500 acres. The weather satellite shows that the smoke over west Ventura County is coming from that fire - about 40 miles away. Camarillo might also be getting some from the Santa Rosa Valley fire but that one's too small to show up on the satellite.
Posted by silverwingedangel on October 21, 2007 at 2:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I thought I'd also mention that the wind got so bad here in Thousand Oaks that one of the new walls (made completely of concrete) put in place for the mall expansion wasn't attached quite yet and the wind knocked it off base enough that it's laying strangely against its frame. Luckily this problem was seen before the expansion was completed! :) Measures are being taken to secure it properly and as quickly as possible.
Posted by PeacockLady on October 21, 2007 at 2:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In Newbury Park, the sky is thick, brown, and orange, and we can smell smoke inside with all the windows closed. I imagine there's ash all over but I don't want to go outside to explore.
Posted by ThoughtPunk on October 21, 2007 at 2:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I just heard on the news that the santa rosa (camarillo) fire should be 100% contained by 5pm, but you always cant believe what you hear on the news.
Posted by keggienkids on October 21, 2007 at 2:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I just talked to channel 4 news and let them know how upset people in ventura county are right now. Our county is on fire and all they can report on is the Malibu fire. This is not the information we need we want to hear about our area. The lady i talked to said that they have info about V.C. but thought people would rather hear about Malibu.
So call the number and let them know how you feel.
the number is 818-840-4444.
I pray God will keep you all safe and you homes and animals.
Posted by SVentura on October 21, 2007 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Here in East Ventura everything has a "burnt orange" glow. I've never experienced anything so bad. I heard from a contact I know in the FD that at this time the City of Ventura is safe. I'm inside with all the windows shut with my air filter on (I have asthma). Anyone with breathing problems should definitely not be outside in this smokey weather. Heck, no one should be.
Posted by DamnSkippy on October 21, 2007 at 2:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
just checked the VC fire website and they even have LESS information!
Posted by Pierreisaloser on October 21, 2007 at 2:53 p.m.
(This thread was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by uclamathguy on October 21, 2007 at 2:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
SRV is getting really bad as far as the smoke goes, but I think it's because the wind switched. There seems to be conflicting info from VCFD regarding whether or not SRV Rd. is still closed.
Posted by SVentura on October 21, 2007 at 2:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by SirenaVentura
Believe me, if the EOC is set up for the City, they will put that on the website immediately. Also those in Ventura who are signed up on the CodeRED system would be notified if danger was close to the City.
Posted by ThoughtPunk on October 21, 2007 at 2:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
quit arguing, im trying to get info here and share info with others. It makes it harder to scan for info when we have to see this crap. =)
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 3 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Anyone have news about fires in Camarillo? I have a nephew and 3 dogs I am worried about. Also my dad is living in a RV in malibu, should I be worried even though he says not to be?
Posted by cassandra on October 21, 2007 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't have TV and can't get any significant radio reception here. Last time I needed to know local fire news it came from KCLU over the local (Ventura) channel and it may again.
It is very dark on the Avenue (Ventura) and the air is bad. The wind has slacked and likely never was as bad as other areas as, I suspect, the Avenue is in a relatively narrow river valley affording some protection from the gusts.
Husband on the east end of the city tells me "It looks like the end of the world!" as the sky is a dark orange.
Virtually every house arround me has someone with asthma. Hope their houses are airtight.
Posted by laviecharmee on October 21, 2007 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I live in Oxnard near the college. I have been watching the sky get darker all day. The smoke and ash is getting bad. I had left my east facing bathroom window open a few hours ago and now I have a thin layer of ash covering my bathroom. It seems the winds from the Santa Rosa and other fires are making a mess.
Posted by kurt_a_johnson on October 21, 2007 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks to everyone for sharing informative posts. This message board really serves as the modern-day version of ham radio and can be invaluable for emergency communications.
Posted by SVentura on October 21, 2007 at 3:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Cassandra...I'm on the East side and it totally looks like we're in "hell". Even with the windows shut, I can still smell the smoke if I get too close to the windows.
Thankfully the winds aren't as bad as they were ealier, but I heard the Santa Ana winds are supposed to be even WORSE tomorrow, which is bad news for the fires and for those with breathing problems. ;-(
Posted by mitchstone on October 21, 2007 at 3:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The entire Santa Clara Valley is under a deep cover of smoke and ash, not just Ventura, Oxnard and Camarillo. Visibility in Santa Paula is about one mile.
The descriptions of the fire locations in this story are confusing. For one, Castaic is located east of Piru, not west, so it's unclear if the fire has burned around Piru or where it's burning exactly. It sure would be nice to know.
Posted by christafrankmiller on October 21, 2007 at 3:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
my husband is working in camarillo...i would love an update.... it just got significantly worse out here at mugu!! we have everything closed up in the house, but my head is killing me and my eyes are burning. it is black sky and red shadows out here!! this is really scary and the kiddos are not enjoying being cooped up!! : (
Posted by etrover on October 21, 2007 at 3:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you all for the updates. I left home (in SRV) early this morning, leaving my adult daughter & cat at home. Being cut off from news has been very frightening & reading your updates has helped.
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 3:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
christafrankmiller.....
I am in the middle of camarillo, it is almost completely black. I had to put my dogs indoors due to poor condition being so bad. Their is also talk of a few small fires in camarillo as well. around somis. I hope i helped hun!
Posted by marcia1 on October 21, 2007 at 3:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I live off Lynn Rd. and Arboles. Tt's getting darker and darker. Which fire is causing this?
The news is full of Malibu. What about Moorpark Etc.?
Posted by PeacockLady on October 21, 2007 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It's getting quite dark here in Newbury Park. The light from a clerestory window looks red on the wall. The smoke smell is very strong.
Posted by silverwingedangel on October 21, 2007 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Saw pictures of Camarillo... Looks like night with the sky completely black. Thousand Oaks is grey/orange with light dust and slowly getting worse.
If you have asthma like me, don't go outside. Hope everyone's okay.
Posted by christafrankmiller on October 21, 2007 at 3:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
thank you devil and everyone else...
i just called khay (100.7 FM)and they said theyll have an update in the next 5 or 10 minutes for local fire news!!!
wow- this is unreal!!!i seriously cant see my back fence!!!
Posted by SVentura on October 21, 2007 at 3:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Just got this off of http://www.vcapcd.org/
Air Quality Advisory
VCAPCD has issued an air quality advisory for particles due to smoke and blowing dust. The blowing smoke is due to mini-wildfires in and around Ventura County. If you are experiencing respiratory effects you may want to remain inside, reduce physical activities, and or see a doctor if necessary.
Because of the smoke, ash, and dust in the air, use common sense to protect your family and yourself.
This advisory will be updated Monday morning at 9:00 am.
Posted by bmclean , Moderator, on October 21, 2007 at 3:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks to all of you for posting comments and keeping each other informed. We apologize for the spotty coverage. As you might imagine, things are quite chaotic. We've now got a better handle on things with reporters in the Santa Rosa Valley and in Malibu and another reporter in the office getting updates on the Castaic fire, which is threatening Piru. If you missed it in the story above, that fire is where most of the smoke is coming from. We'll keep updating the story as soon as we get more information.
Bruce McLean
Posted by honikman on October 21, 2007 at 3:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In East Ventura - Kimball and Hwy 126 - It is still orange but not as dark and scary as an hour ago. Is there an agency that is responsible for identifying and naming fires? We really need that - so many different names being used. Earlier when it was so dark I was sure there was a fire close to us that had not been identified. It would help if the TV could show regional maps. But back to the original question - isn't there one agency who controls ID and location of different fires?
Posted by minventura on October 21, 2007 at 3:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you all for your input. I'm in the city of Ventura in the hills/north victoria) and can find NO information ANYWHERE other than the Malibu fire. I have this problem every single time there is a problem with fires in the area. Where in the heck is our local reporting? You'd think our public broadcasting station would have SOMETHING about the local fires. I've heard the smoke and ash covering Ventura is from Malibu and from the castaic fires. I'd happily volunteer for the public station chanel 10 or the fire department to type out updates for them. !!!
Conditons here are total smoke and ash, smell of smoke even in our closed up house.
Posted by PeacockLady on October 21, 2007 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you, Bruce, for all your efforts to keep us updated. Is there a map we can look at?
Posted by heyitsme on October 21, 2007 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Here in Camarillo, it's getting slightly brighter. We're off of Flynn Road between Adolfo and Las Posas. About an hour ago it was DARK and very, very ashy. It's still very ashy and smoky but the sun is peeking through a bit and the smoke doesn't seem so thick. I'm assuming the winds changed a bit?
Still, we're all inside, since it smells like a campfire out there.
Posted by tommy_liddell on October 21, 2007 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Things here in East Ventura have lightened up considerably in the last few minutes. Weather stations near the coast have switched around and now (at least the instant I looked at them) show an onshore breeze.
Posted by bmclean , Moderator, on October 21, 2007 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Our graphics person is working on a map as I write this.
Posted by SilverstrandBeach on October 21, 2007 at 3:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Then air and sky are very bad at Silverstrand. Ash is floating through the air. We can't keep the smoke smell out of the house. Very bad here because the winds bring all the smoke to us. We're thinking of heading up north to Santa Barbara to spend the night. It's safe here, but the air quality is very bad. Then again, too concerned to leave if some of that floating ash has hot embers on it. If one of those embers gets on to one of the houses out here one spark could set off a whole row of houses. Scary stuff.
Posted by SVentura on October 21, 2007 at 3:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
My husband went to the Ventura Harbor to check on our boat and took pretty scary photos. Dark ash floating on the water, and dark orange sky.
Posted by kpy85 on October 21, 2007 at 3:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is the darkest I've ever seen the sky from fires here in Thousand Oaks. Four years ago it was pretty bad when that fire north of Simi Valley went crazy, but this is worse!
The only good news? Maybe classes at Moorpark college will be cancelled tomorrow. Four years ago they cancelled classes for two days during the fires.
Posted by caligal on October 21, 2007 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I live in the Camarillo hills above Las Posas. From here it is ominously dark, and there's a eerie orange glow to the sky. through the glass doors i can see the wind in our back yard toss downed branches and vegetation causing them to dance across the yard in one direction.. only to see them return for an encore moments later as the wind shifts. There are huge filamentous flakes of ashes floating about, and the air is acrid and smells quite strong even from within our house. Our pool is full of debris and ash making it appear more as a brakish pond. As one drives down the street you can see huge branches split and lying across yards and streets, and many fences are down... lying listlessly on their sides. it's surreal out there.
Posted by B8R_N4MD on October 21, 2007 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The entire valley of Piru, Fillmore, Santa Paula and Ventura is dark with smoke and falling ash. It is coming from the Ranch Fire, which is the fire that started in Castaic and is now heading into Piru Canyon. Ventura County Firefighters along with assistance from all the city departments have been doing an excellent job snuffing out the fires they have been responding to, especially with the current conditions. Plus VC Fire sent help down to Malibu also!
Just heard one Firefighter was killed and 4 were injured on a fire in San Diego. My deepest sympathy to them. Thank you Bruce for the updates.
Posted by minventura on October 21, 2007 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't know how worth it is ... but here's a emergency information website you can sign up for in Ventura.
https://login.coderedweb.com/coderedd...
But for those of you who are as frustrated as I am about getting local fire information it may be worth it.
Posted by mac94 on October 21, 2007 at 3:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
KABC (channel 7) seems to be doing a good job of covering all of the fires, including the ones in San Diego.
Posted by cassandra on October 21, 2007 at 3:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In Ventura, you can get addresses with latest calls to Fire Dept. on their web page and click on "fireline." That way you know as much as they do about where it is.
Last serious fire, the major networks ignored VC for the most part and KCLU came through and I'm told some other local radio stations. Neighbors informed neighbors just as we are doing on-line and the Univ. station carried their voices.
Here off the Avenue, there is no wind and a stifling grey atmosphere. Ash like snowflakes is drifting in the air.
Posted by silverwingedangel on October 21, 2007 at 3:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I doubt they'll cancel classes. They only cancelled night classes last time due to the immediate threat. There's no fire threat to Moorpark College at the moment so the only chance of cancelling classes is if the teachers decide not to come. Oh well.
Posted by spnavarro on October 21, 2007 at 3:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It's 3:25p, and I am located near the Village Pkwy drive. [Nearby landmarks would be Friendly Village Mobile Hm Park and Strathern Park]
You would think there was a storm coming out here, as it has gotten very dark out here! The sun, if you actually peer your head out the door, is orange, and the air quality is so poor, that my windows are now shut.
As for footage, here's all the links I have:
VC Fire Dept. Fireline: http://38.101.117.146/fireline/
LA County Fire:
http://fire.lacounty.gov/default.asp
KVTA 1520 AM
http://www.kvta.com/default.asp
KABC 7 Los Angeles
http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/front
NBC 4 Los Angeles
http://www.knbc.com/index.html
KCal9 & CBS2 News
http://cbs2.com/
Keeping myself informed basically because it's Deja Vu all over again... when I moved to Simi some five years ago, there was a fire just before Halloween, that delayed my moving in by about a week. Found out from neighbors later that they did have to evacuate their homes during that time prior to my moving into the area.
Posted by kpy85 on October 21, 2007 at 3:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
They cancelled classes for two full days in the fall of 2003 because of the unhealthy air.
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 3:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Can anyone tell me how close the fire is to the Malibu RV park? my dad is curretly residing their, please let me know, I can not get a hold of him!
Posted by allycalifornia on October 21, 2007 at 3:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We just drove home to NP from Thousand Oaks. The sky is dark as night, the sun is blood red, smoke and ash are everywhere, and there is an eery yellow tint to everything.
Posted by hunni4 on October 21, 2007 at 3:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
YOUR ARE ALL WONDERFUL...thank you so very much for all your input...
We live in Idaho and have been worried sick about our family and friends in the Camarillo area.
THANKS......BE SAFE EVERYONE....
Posted by uclamathguy on October 21, 2007 at 3:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Is there a fire in Santa Rosa Valley or not? It's been really confusing...it seems that the Nightsky fire has already been put out but a story was just posted that evacuations are being recommended in the Santa Rosa Valley. (?)
Posted by laviecharmee on October 21, 2007 at 3:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
UCLAMATHGUY~ It is my undestanding that the nightsky fire and the Santa Rosa Valley fire are one and the same. It began near Nightsky Dr in the Santa Rosa Valley is what I understand.
Posted by mmccarthy on October 21, 2007 at 3:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
uclamathguy: From our story currently posted.
A fire near Moorpark started at 7 a.m. south of Tierra Rejada Road and north of Moorpark Road and was fully contained by 8:42 a.m.
But the Nightsky fire broke out at around 11 a.m. and it's unknown if those fires are connected.
Posted by dwlee3 on October 21, 2007 at 3:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
A neighbor went up to Prescilla via Barranca in SRV. The flames were right there, at about 2 p.m.
Posted by JMR on October 21, 2007 at 3:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm piss... CBS is showing a football game and ABC and NBC showing the local news.
Posted by anplopez on October 21, 2007 at 4 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Santa Rosa Valley Fire
Yes there is a fire in the Santa Rosa Valley. It is close to containment. The authorities have closed Santa Rosa Road beginning at Moorpark Road to East Las Posas. You cannot access Santa Rosa Road in these areas unless you are a resident. Evauations in these areas have been suggested as well as West of the fire. Several neighbors have already relocated their horses and pets (dogs, cats, birds, sheep, exotic animals etc.) The sky is full of dark smoke. It is suggested that any pets kept outside be brought in, asap!. Green Meadow Nursery closed immediately after the fire broke out due to unsafe air quality and to prevent any harm to their customers, due to falling trees, shrubs etc.
Posted by Nosmo_King on October 21, 2007 at 4:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
an hour ago Santa paula was in thick smoke, sun not visible. the wind seems to have shifted the smoke towards the south i.e. looking north from santa paula Blue sky, looking south brown/orange smoke.
Posted by SVentura on October 21, 2007 at 4:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Good update: http://www.kvta.com/
Posted by trek_queen on October 21, 2007 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The Santa Rosa Valley fire is still burning. Just talked to a friend in Moorpark near Tierra Rejada who said he saw the flames coming up towards the expensive Lexington homes on the east end of santa rosa valley rd. we're in simi near tierra rejada/LA Ave/Madera and everything is dark, wind is picking up again in short gust bursts after a calm of a couple hours. our cat and dog are creeped out and keep looking at the doors and windows whining and meowing.
Posted by bshennum on October 21, 2007 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Skies are still really dark here in Simi, but looking east it seems clear over in SFV.
Posted by fromny2ca on October 21, 2007 at 4:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Devilangelhawk - a recent article said Carbon Canyon and Big Rock areas have been evacuated earlier today. Malibu Hills area - Castle Kashan and Malibu Presyterian Church were destroyed. Flames were near Pepperdine and all students were sheltered. I don't know if any of this helps identify the distance to your Dad. Hope your worries are soon put to end and and your Dad is safe.
Thank you all for the updates. Finding this site and reading along put my fears at rest. Like many of you before I spent much to long trying to find out the location of the fires. I have been sick for some time and came out of my room to an orange sky. I made the mistake of opening the door and walking onto the street. It was like I was the only person on earth. It is getting brighter now.
God please keep our fire fighters safe from harm and the fires are soon under control.
Posted by smpsemail on October 21, 2007 at 4:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
1/2 hour ago drove length of Santa Rosa road from Moorpark up to 101. It was open.
Staging area a school on Santa Rosa Road was just starting to get busier.
Drove up Blanchard Road to the top and a large tree had closed the road at the top near a horse ranch. A private contractor was in process of removing.
Lots of smoke as all know. Fire seemed contained at the original 35 acres for the moment.
VC Fire was immediately on the ball. Thanks to all.
Posted by granados.vm on October 21, 2007 at 4:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Is there any fire near Newbury Park (Thousand Oaks)? The news don't report anything near here, but since 3pm the smoke is blocking the sunlight.
I don't know if we are getting crossed smoke from Malibu and Camarillo, or if there is another fire close here.
Has anyone heard anything?
Posted by cornwall4 on October 21, 2007 at 4:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
granados
The smoke above your house is from the Piru/Castaic Fire
Posted by ted122 on October 21, 2007 at 4:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Granados, doesn't look like there is any fire by Newbury Park.
Posted by russellaberg on October 21, 2007 at 4:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm also in NP and I'm not aware of anything. The smoke is coming from the Castaic and probably Santa Rosa fires. I'm worried about the SR fire since with this wind we (NP residence) are in direct line if it get out of control.
Posted by Irishkell on October 21, 2007 at 4:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The sky over Fillmore is brown and UGLY! I cannot even see the F anymore!! I hear the Ranch Fire (Castaic Fire) is burning close to Piru. Can anyone give me an update on the traffic on 126??
Posted by dettinger on October 21, 2007 at 4:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
KCLU recently reported that the Castaic fire, burning near Piru, is creating most of the smoke we're getting in Ventura County.
Smoke and ash got to the East Valley (Oak Park) a couple of hours ago.
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 4:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
fromny2ca...
thank you very much. I am still trying to gain contact. i am not sure if he is at the park, or trying to get back in? so anyone with any information as to how close the fire is to the Malibu RV Park, i would appreciate your help.
Posted by tiales on October 21, 2007 at 4:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
devilangelhawk -
The RV Park is on PCH and I've read the Malibu portion of PCH is closed. Try the LA County Fire Dept.s website, they have a map.
Posted by summermusic932 on October 21, 2007 at 4:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
For those not in southern Calif you can go to http://abclocal.go.com/kabc/front where you can see all the fire coverage you want. That's the local ABC station.
Thanks to everyone for their web suggestions! I'm now listening to kvta.
Posted by mmccarthy on October 21, 2007 at 4:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
devilangelhawk, we are covering the malibu fire in a separate story and updating anything having to do with that fire at http://www.venturacountystar.com/news...
It may help you somewhat with getting some information.
~Mandy
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 4:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
thank you to all, i still can not get through to him. I am unsure if he is in the rv at the park (malibu rv beach park) I have been bouncing back and fourth.
About the camarillo fires, have they been contained?
Posted by granados.vm on October 21, 2007 at 4:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks for all the updates about NP.
Posted by summermusic932 on October 21, 2007 at 4:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If you are as bothered by the low humidity as I am, you might find relief by using a vaporizer. I'm up here in Moorpark, doors and windows locked up tight, and the vaporizer has really helped my skin and sinuses.
The skies were very dark orange but have lightened a little bit in the last few minutes. It's terribly windy.
Thanks again to all who have posted emergency information web sites.
Posted by realtyshark on October 21, 2007 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If it is the Malibu Beach RV Park, the address is 25801 Pacific Coast Hwy. The Colony, where 3 homes burned is located at 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy. In pulling up directions from one to the other, the RV park is 3.5 miles away. Go to www.maliburv.com to get a map of the RV park. It is on the ocean and doesn't look like it is in the evacuation areas. Call their number at (310) 456-052 - maybe they will answer. Hope it helps.
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 4:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
realtyshark...
thank you so much sweetie. that helped alot. i just heard from my dad as well, he is on the side of pch trying to go get the rv out. thank you so much again!
Posted by orangeblossom05 on October 21, 2007 at 5:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hi. Another great source of information is KNX 1070. They've been giving 100% coverage to fires since this morning. They rotate from location to location, so I don't feel in the dark...no pun intended.
Thanks for splitting up the news, VC Star Staff. It helps.
Posted by suprvar on October 21, 2007 at 5:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Can I get to my home off of East Las Posas Roaad in SRV? ANy one know the status of the fire?
Posted by christafrankmiller on October 21, 2007 at 5:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
thank you for keeping us posted on you dad devil!! i have been praying for you both!! i hope he is able to get it out ok!! please keep us posted!!
Posted by AutumnRose on October 21, 2007 at 5:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'd just like to thank the VC Star staff for the fire map, the updates, and this comment section which has helped us to keep each other informed.
This as well as the local radio stations and various websites we could turn to is greatly appreciated at times like this. Relying on the L.A. stations for our local news leaves a lot to be desired.
Thanks again to all!
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 5:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
is their a website that is giving updates about when pch will be open? my dad will need my truck and my fiance and friends help to get out of the park once he gets in.
thank you for thinking about us even though you do not know us! i wish their were more unselfish people in this world. thank you again for your time and consideration and prayers.
Posted by dwlee3 on October 21, 2007 at 5:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
suprvar: E. Las Posas is open, but they are checking IDs.
Posted by mmccarthy on October 21, 2007 at 5:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
devilangelhawk or anyone else who wants the information..
You can access the http://cad.chp.ca.gov/ and go to Los Angeles county for road info.
Posted by otiskoan on October 21, 2007 at 5:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hi all. To those posting pictures, can you tell us your general vicinity on the tag lines. The photos are great but would be better with more information. Thanks.
Posted by Mark_Smith on October 21, 2007 at 5:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I would like to firstly thank my fellow posters for their help and provision of information that had gone unreported. Secondly I would like to thank the VC Star for picking up the ball and running with it.
The sky out here in the SRV is clearing up a bit (not much) but unfortunately there still appears to be some conflicting information regarding the status of the fire out here, the degree of containment, the expected time of full containment and the status of Santa Rosa Road. As I write this post, the wind, again, has picked up.
Posted by ted122 on October 21, 2007 at 5:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I too would like to thank the folks at the Star for providing this forum. It is a great tool, much better than what the TV provided today.
Thank you :)
Hope all are well and safe!
Posted by admin on October 21, 2007 at 5:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
is the fire in Canyon Country the same as the Castaic Fire. Is there a fire in Piru or Fillmore. Are the winds coming back this evening.
Posted by Irishkell on October 21, 2007 at 5:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The fire in Cyn Country started in Aqua Dulce, it burned 20-30 miles straight to a community in Cyn Ctry, just off Soledad Cyn. The Castaic fire aka the Ranch Fire has burnt over 2000+ acres and could threaten Piru and possibly Fillmore.
Posted by unkwon805 on October 21, 2007 at 6:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Does anyone know how santa paula and filmore are doing? Is it ok out there? I've heard that you can bearly open your eyes there do to the ash.If anyone knows anything please comment, I have family there and Im worried.
Posted by mmccarthy on October 21, 2007 at 6:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
unkwon805, we're working on getting an update onto the web as I type this for the Fillmore/S.P. area.
Posted by unkwon805 on October 21, 2007 at 6:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
by the way thank you for all the updates, LA news isn't at its best at the moment the fire of malibu has been convered more and there are many of us out there concerned with the fires and the situation in our county as well. Thank you once again for bringing the best coverage
Posted by bsupple on October 21, 2007 at 6:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
SANTA ROSA VALLEY FIRE
Can anyone still see active flames from the SRV Fire? The winds have really picked up again.
Posted by unkwon805 on October 21, 2007 at 6:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
thank you for your effort and work its truelly appreciate it. Is there anything that those like me that not in the areas can help? I was going to head south but I thought I may just add to the congestion of traffic if there is any. Thank you once again.
Posted by mac94 on October 21, 2007 at 6:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The Agua Dulce fire is getting the attention now.
Posted by B8R_N4MD on October 21, 2007 at 6:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Very windy still but the smoke has mainly moved south over South Mountain.
Posted by unkwon805 on October 21, 2007 at 6:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
thank you B8R_N4MD for the info
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 6:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
the wind is picking up drastically again in camarillo. there is aslo a layer of gray, orange and red across the sky over the house.
Posted by VCfashionista on October 21, 2007 at 6:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
how is it in fillmore currently? the conditions?
Posted by layservantofjmj on October 21, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Moderator...thankyou for working on that update for Fillmore/S.P. Area...Need to know whats happening out here I live in fillmore...God Bless you all out there !!!
Posted by unkwon805 on October 21, 2007 at 6:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
will santa paula be soon asked to evacuate as well?
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 6:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I hope to not show stupidity at the moment, but is there a chance areas of camarillo will need to evacuate at any time tonight?
Posted by RelaxPeople on October 21, 2007 at 6:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
the canyon country fire is really gnarly.
Posted by admin on October 21, 2007 at 6:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
does anyone know if the fire will reach ventura with the wind blowing or amebers blowing in this direction. The wind is blowing north towards ventura.
Posted by unkwon805 on October 21, 2007 at 6:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Moderator would you recomend evacuating santa paula before it gets any darker and traffic becomes more congested? or do you think that the chances of evacuating santa paula are not that big? what are the chances of fillmore and santa paula evacuating?
Posted by ironwoman on October 21, 2007 at 6:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Fillmore seems okay right now. Smoky and windy. I don't see any fire at this time.
Posted by layservantofjmj on October 21, 2007 at 6:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Go to kvta they already have a list for Piru and fllmore update
Posted by Irishkell on October 21, 2007 at 7:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I say we say a prayer for the folks losing thier homes in Canyon Country right now - it looks really really bad!!
Posted by unkwon805 on October 21, 2007 at 7:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I back you up Irishkell
Posted by j_bar_j on October 21, 2007 at 7:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I believe the Santa Rosa Valley fire is out. I live about a half mile to the SW of where it was (just on the other side of the arroyo) and have been monitoring it all day. The helicopters stopped flying about an hour ago and the smoke is virtually gone. As of now, there are still fire trucks and I suspect crews monitoring it, but I think the worst is past.
Posted by christafrankmiller on October 21, 2007 at 7:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i have been praying all day irishkell and i will continue to until they are all out...God bless everyone in this area! we may not have to evaquate and i may not lose anything but my heart is with those that do!!
it is still really nasty out here in mugu- the only nice thing is its finally dark so i cant see how really bad it is.
i hope everyone is doing ok...!?
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 7:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i am still unable to find out if pacific coast highway is open at all or not? i still need to get to my dad out there.
Posted by summermusic932 on October 21, 2007 at 7:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I hadn't realized how many people live in areas where the only access is by 2-lane road. I live in Moorpark and know it's a problem here, but am amazed when I look at the Canyon Country fire coverage how the access issue could be life and death for tens of thousands of people. Prayers for all.
Posted by Irishkell on October 21, 2007 at 7:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Just heard about a really bad one in Irvine, near Portola Ranch, very close to a large community.
Posted by jmdackow on October 21, 2007 at 7:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
devilangelhawk, have you checked the CHP website:
http://cad.chp.ca.gov/
Posted by joentascha on October 21, 2007 at 8 p.m. (Suggest removal)
My sister-in-law is on the outskirts of the fire in Orange County... She lives by rancho Santiago College down there. She said that they are all watching and waiting. the winds are really strong. She has started packing things just in case.
Posted by rmtokubo1 on October 21, 2007 at 8:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Santa Rosa Valley Fire -- Anybody have any updates?? i am in Mission Oaks.
thankx
Posted by admin on October 21, 2007 at 8:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
anyone know about the piru fire??????
Anyone know about the camarillo fire?
Anyone know about the castaic fire????
Posted by uclamathguy on October 21, 2007 at 8:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
SRV fire is out I believe. I can breathe now :-). I also believe SR Rd. has been open for some time now.
Posted by mac94 on October 21, 2007 at 8:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
My daughter was on the top floor of a parking structure at the Spectrum and she and her friends could see the flames.
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 8:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i have been trying the chp website, but i am getting nothing about pch. any other ideas?
Posted by rmtokubo1 on October 21, 2007 at 8:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Spectrum, where??? Moorpark????
Posted by laviecharmee on October 21, 2007 at 8:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
For road closures check this website http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/
At the top center of the page you can enter a freeway number (1 for PCH) and it will give you road closure information
Posted by mac94 on October 21, 2007 at 8:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Knx's website sometimes has traffic updates
Posted by mac94 on October 21, 2007 at 8:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sorry, the Spectrum is in Irvine, right off the 405 before it meets the 5
Posted by Fillmorite on October 21, 2007 at 8:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In Fillmore the wind is blowing a steady 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph right now. It seems to be coming out of the N.E.. Been keeping an eye on Pole Creek Canyon but no glow as of yet. For sure the Ranch fire is on its way.
Posted by hughesmove on October 21, 2007 at 8:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Does anyone have any school closing information? My daughter just got a call from a friend that ABC was reporting school closings but I can't find any confirmation. Thanks in advance.
Posted by Irishkell on October 21, 2007 at 8:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Fillmore/Piru update: flames can be seen from 126 in Piru!
Posted by layservantofjmj on October 21, 2007 at 8:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
KVTA is starting updates at 3am monday morn on fires
Posted by minventura on October 21, 2007 at 8:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Devil... the article on http://www.kvta.com/ (as of when I ready it at 8:39pm tonight) says the PCH is closed. But I couldn't find a time for when the article was written so I don't know if it's current information or not. I know that AAA usually has current road information on their website so you may want to try that.
Posted by admin on October 21, 2007 at 8:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
is the irvine fire near Disneyland. Does anyone know if the smoke is in and around the Disneyland area?????
Posted by devilangelhawk on October 21, 2007 at 8:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
laviecharmee....
you are awesome!!! thank you so much, just what i needed. i am actually going to him now!
Posted by admin on October 21, 2007 at 9:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
how is the piru fire?
Posted by admin on October 21, 2007 at 9:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
kcal.com has all school closures
Posted by Irishkell on October 21, 2007 at 9:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I cannot find any updates on the Piru/Ranch fire. Does anyone have any information?
Posted by admin on October 21, 2007 at 9:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
All information below is as of 9:30 pm Sunday...
Governor Schwarzenegger declares State of Emergency in all of Southern California (see the NEWS section of our website).
Firefighters are getting ready for a long night, especially in the hills and canyons north of Piru and Fillmore. The "Ranch Fire" has now burned 6,000 acres since it broke out Saturday night near Castaic and has now made a run into Ventura County.
It has burned down to Lake Piru.
Reccomended evacuations have been called for the following areas of Piru...
Holser Canyon
Lechler
Piru Canyon
Doinguez Canyon
Unincorporated area on out skirts of Piru
Precautionary evacuations have been issued for the follow areas of Fillmore...
East of 4th Street
Foothill
Hunter Drive
Shady Lane
Arundell Circle
The Red Cross has set up an evacuation center at the Veterans Memorial Building in Fillmore at 511 Second Street.
Piru Canyon Road is closed. Highway 126 is open.
this info is off the KVTA web site
Posted by VCfashionista on October 21, 2007 at 9:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
any info about fillmore?
Posted by KevinAntilles on October 21, 2007 at 9:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I got fed up with the lack of information on the Santa Rosa Valley fire so I got in the car and drove over to the area (I live in Camarillo behind the Courtyard by Marriott) where it was supposed to be and I didn't see any smoke or flames, so I'm assuming that the fire is completely out now. Santa Rosa Rd is completely open.
Posted by ebrockway on October 21, 2007 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Irishkell;
Only thing I can find on Piru is this on the CHP Webpage about total road closure even to residents of Piru Canyon.
3:06PM PER VCFD & VSO CLOSING PIRU CANYON COMPLETLY FOR RESD & ALL TRFC
From the County Fire Page, they posted this;
Location: North of Piru and Fillmore. As of 9:00 pm this evening the fire has burned 12,000 acres and is 0% contained.
Been looking around for some infared satellite images that may show progress, but nothing so far.
Posted by Fillmorite on October 21, 2007 at 10:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The Ranch fire has not got to Fillmore yet. But it will before the night is over. The winds have picked up to a steady 45-50 mph and 60+ gusts. My oak and avocado trees are being beat to death. I have lost a couple of limbs off of my 300 year old oaks. No fruit left high up on the avocados. The smoke is getting very heavy in Fillmore and with the wind it is seeping into every crack of the house. It smells awful outside. The Fire Dept. has been around all the streets that back up to the mountains and told them to get ready and if they have health problems to leave now. We are waiting for strike teams & hand crews from Sacramento to arrive. A good website for Fillmore info is www.sespesun.com Chris is posting every couple of hours.
Posted by Fillmorite on October 21, 2007 at 10:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
OOPs. wrong website address. It is www.thesespesun.com
Posted by ebrockway on October 21, 2007 at 10:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jackpot!
http://wildfire.cr.usgs.gov/fireplann...#
Kind of have to play with it to figure out how to use it, but once you get it nailed you can see the exact fire perimeter. On the bottom right you'll see where it says "Zoom to County". Zoom to Ventura, and you'll see the fire area in Piru outlined in blue. Take the mouse and draw a box around that, and it'll zoom to that spot.
Posted by moorparkjames on October 21, 2007 at 11:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Boy, the winds sure seem to bring out the firebug in a few individuals. All these fires couldn't be accidents.
Posted by VCfashionista on October 21, 2007 at 11:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
fillmorite-thanks for the info
Posted by tiales on October 21, 2007 at 11:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
from www.kvta.com ...
All information below is as of 11:00 pm Sunday...
Governor Schwarzenegger declares State of Emergency in all of Southern California (full release in NEWS section).
The fire that is burning just north of Piru is known as the "Ranch Fire." It has burned 12,000 acres. It started in Castaic Saturday night. It has burned down to Lake Piru and down towards the community of Piru.
Reccomended evacuations for Piru...
Holser Canyon
Lechler
Piru Canyon
Doinguez Canyon
Unincorporated area on out skirts of Piru
They are expecting the fire to reach the hills north of Fillmore as the winds pick up overnight.
Precautionary evacuations for Fillmore...
East of 4th Street
Foothill
Hunter Drive
Shady Lane
Arundell Circle
The Red Cross evacuation center at the Veterans Memorial Building in Fillmore at 511 Second Street.
Piru Canyon Road is closed. Highway 126 is open.
*****************
The "Nightsky" fire started around 10:30 Sunday morning in the Lexington Hills community at the east end of the Santa Rosa Valley. At one point it threatened more than 200 homes and slightly damaged one as it moved to the west. But firefighters got the upper hand on it. They now say it is 60% contained with full containment by Monday morning, but it's really pretty much out now.
ALL evacuation notices have been lifted.
Santa Rosa Road is open.
****************
The "Canyon Fire" in Malibu has burned some 1,200 acres and several structures, including the landmark Malibu Castle. It is still a threat.
Malibu Canyon Road is closed. Pacific Coast Highway is closed.
******************
A health advisory has been issued for the heavy smoke from all of these fires. Full news release in the NEWS section of our website.
Animal evacuations...large to the fairgrounds in Ventura, small to the shelter at Camarillo Airport. For more information and help call 1-866-387-8911.
Posted by chaconey on October 21, 2007 at 11:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm in Camarillo off of Santa Rosa and Woodcreek, and the wind has majorly picked up over the last couple of hours. It's scary loud and strong. I already have half a tree in my patio, and am worried about more breakage. I think it's going to be a long night.
Posted by RelaxPeople on October 21, 2007 at 11:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
no winds, zero, in west ventura.
Posted by Reese on October 22, 2007 at midnight (Suggest removal)
Regularly updated info for all current fires in the state -
Posted by tiales on October 22, 2007 at 12:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
winds are getting worse over here on the East end of Ventura.
VENTURA COUNTY INTERIOR VALLEYS-VENTURA COUNTY COASTAL VALLEYS- LOS ANGELES COUNTY VALLEYS- SANTA CLARITA VALLEY- 1143 PM PDT SUN OCT 21 2007
...HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM PDT TUESDAY...
A HIGH WIND WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM PDT TUESDAY.
DANGEROUS NORTH TO NORTHEAST WINDS 30 TO 45 MPH WITH LOCAL DAMAGING WIND GUSTS TO 70 MPH CAN BE EXPECTED BELOW THE FAVORED NORTHEAST PASSES AND CANYONS. WINDS ARE EXPECTED TO DIMINISH SLIGHTLY DURING THE LATE AFTERNOON AND EARLY EVENING HOURS... BUT ARE EXPECTED TO RE INTENSIFY DURING THE OVERNIGHT THROUGH EARLY AFTERNOON HOURS.
Posted by Mark_Smith on October 22, 2007 at 12:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
KVTA update:
The "Nightsky" fire in the Lexington Hills community at the east end of the Santa Rosa Valley. It is 60% contained and pretty much in mop up phase, but with the winds picking up again, all bets are off.
ALL evacuation notices have been lifted.
Santa Rosa Road is open.
Posted by Reese on October 22, 2007 at 1:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The winds are really howling in Camarillo's westside and the smell of smoke is stronger now than it was during the worst of it yesterday.
Posted by AnnaWhaat on October 22, 2007 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
mac94 ,You mean that mansion castle house? I have NO clue never heard of it.
jmcgaw3046 ,Great post,Everyone that believes in the power of prayer should pray for all the firemen out there fighting these fires. If possible do what you can. They usually camp out somewhere around the county,probably many places right now. Bake some cookies, take water,cold sodas whatever would be nice for them. Also please pray for the victims who have lost thier homes. They need alot of prayer right now. And pray the fires are out very very soon.
In Fillmore yesterday in the early day....it was so ORANGE outside you couldn't even see indoors without the lights on. It was like nighttime. Everything is blowing all over the place and ashe is everywhere!!!!!
spudman ,With the winds blowing as bad as they are the smoke is definately going to blow that way also.
Mark_Smith ,Check out the FillmoreGazzette.com and the SespeSun.com they have more updates for Our area..........they are trying to update it as much as possible.
rsweatt,I heard on the news that not just people with Asthma that should most definately stay indoors that all people should try to stay inside.The smoke is sooooo bad.
ted122 ,Check out the sites I gave above.
I also heard KHAY radio was giving out alot of info.
res1q7et,Cant remember the name of it. I think something Ranch fire. But its coming down the Las Padres behind Fillmore and Piru and with the wind its all blowing that way......I would think from the Castaic and the Aqua Dulce fire. Cause the wind is blowing that way....Gonna post this then finish reading lots of storys....
Posted by AnnaWhaat on October 22, 2007 at 10:30 a.m. (Suggest removal)
unkwon805 ,Between Piru and Valencia the road is closed. They did close 126 for awhile yesterday. They have evacuated piru near the lake. Piru is on standby and voluntary evacutations as well as certain areas in Fillmore. 4th st near pole creek and A st up Goodenough......due to it being near the back mountains that are burning. My parents just had to go sweep up at least four inches of ashe in the backyard. Before it all blows into the pool......... Its really bad there!
Posted by admin on October 22, 2007 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
any new news about the fire in Piru??????
Posted by dranymo on October 22, 2007 at 12:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In ventura near the courthouse the wind is picking up, the fire sky is here and last I read the update from the star is Filmore is recommending a voluntary evacuation or just be ready warning. My prayers to all of the fire areas and anything in their path.
http://www.venturacountystar.com/news...
Article discussions on this site are to support community debates of issues related to our stories and editorials.
Discussions should not stray from the subject of the story or editorial.
We do not allow the following:
- Posts that degrade others on the basis of gender, race, class, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation or disability.
- Disparaging remarks, abusive language or obscene comments.
- Threats, whether obvious or veiled.
We reserve the right to delete threads and/or ban users for these or other reasons we deem necessary.
Opinions are the sole responsibility of the person posting them. You agree not to post comments that are off topic, defamatory, obscene, abusive, threatening or an invasion of privacy. Violators may be banned. Click here for our full user agreement.
There are 210 comments to this article.
Comments are found beneath the Yahoo! ad below.