Dubbed the Mountain Fire, the blaze was initially reported around 8:50 a.m. near the intersection of Balcom Canyon Road and Bradley Road on South Mountain, in the Moorpark area. Initially estimated at just 25 acres, the fire has ballooned dramatically, covering nearly 1,000 acres by mid-morning. By 1:30 p.m., Cal Fire announced that the fire had consumed over 8,800 acres and remained 0% contained.

Several injuries have been reported, with individuals transported to local hospitals for treatment. Numerous structures are under threat, and the flames have crossed SR-118, moving into the Camarillo area and endangering the Camarillo Heights region. SkyCal recorded images of four homes burning concurrently near Cabrillo Way and Highland Drive.

The ongoing strong winds, with gusts reaching over 60 miles per hour, have prompted the National Weather Service to issue Red Flag Warnings, upgrading the situation to a "Particularly Dangerous Situation" alert due to the immediate fire weather threat. Currently, 140 firefighters are on the scene, supported by 58 fire apparatus and additional aircraft, although fixed-wing aircraft have been grounded due to the hazardous wind conditions.

The fire's rapid spread is attributed to the challenging topography combined with very dry vegetation and strong winds. According to VCFD Captain Anthony McHale, the fire is burning in an intermix area of wildland and agricultural zones, posing severe risks to nearby residences and farms. The wind-driven flames are particularly hazardous, with embers potentially traveling long distances and igniting spot fires.

Evacuation orders span from Walnut Avenue to Balcom Canyon Road, North Highway 118 to the ridgeline, and west to Saticoy Country Club. An evacuation shelter has been set up at Padre Serra Parish in Camarillo. Residents with large pets can bring them to Ventura County Fairgrounds, while small pets are being accommodated at the Ventura County Animal Services center at the Camarillo Airport.

Numerous road closures are in effect, including SR-118 at Tierra Rejada and Wells Road, and Balcom Canyon Road at Stockton and Las Posas at Lewis. N. Lewis Road was closed at noon, causing traffic disruptions. Additionally, local schools such as Chaparral Middle School and Campus Canyon College Prep Academy faced closures due to power outages.

The fire’s growth and imminent threat have prompted a swift response from state officials, including California Governor Gavin Newsom, who confirmed that state resources are being mobilized to support the emergency response. With winds predicted to persist, SoCal Edison has initiated Public Safety Power Shutoffs, affecting over 23,300 customers in Ventura County to minimize fire risk.

The battle against the Mountain Fire continues, with firefighters and emergency services working tirelessly to protect life and property amidst some of the most challenging firefighting conditions.