LOS ANGELES A fast-growing wildfire along the Pacific Coast Highway northwest of Los Angeles nearly doubled in size and was threatening more than 4,000 homes Friday as crews battled strong winds, tinder-dry conditions and record-breaking temperatures.
The Springs Fire had burned more than 18,000 acres of rugged, brush-covered terrain by Friday afternoon and was only 20 percent contained, local fire officials reported. Forecasters said 45-mph wind gusts would taper off in the afternoon, and cooling may begin by evening.
At midday, the temperature hit a record 96 in Camarillo, where the blaze began, about 50 miles north of Los Angeles.
Thousands of residents had already evacuated the Ventura County fire, including 118 families ordered from a premier Navy base because of heavy smoke after flames jumped the scenic highway Friday morning.
The fire began Thursday during the morning rush hour near U.S. 101, which is the major commuter route into Los Angeles San Fernando Valley. After reaching the coast overnight, the fire headed back inland Friday.
The fire had damaged 15 homes and destroyed at least 25 outbuildings and other property by midday. Large animals and livestock were being taken to the county fairgrounds.
In addition to 4,000 homes, the wildfire was threatening 100 businesses in its southwestern race toward Malibu. Officials said Friday afternoon that the famous beach community was not threatened.
No operations were affected Friday morning at the sprawling Naval Base Ventura County, which was already operating on an essential mission basis. The base has a population of more than 19,000 personnel and operates two runways, a sea-test range and deep-water port.
The evacuation order only affected the San Miguel housing unit for the Point Mugu air station.
This is due to smoke, rather than fire, concerns, public affairs officer Kimberly Gearhart announced on the bases Facebook page.
Tom Kruschke, Ventura County fire spokesman, said there is effectively a vast field of coals behind the flaming edges of the wildfire that could flare up when winds return.
Were going to be at Mother Natures mercy, Kruschke said.
He said high winds, high temperatures, low humidity, plus dry vegetation from the winter drought adds up to a perfect storm for wildfire.
California State University-Channel Islands, a school with nearly 5,000 students that opened in 2002, was evacuated. The Ventura County Fire Department said it had sent 20 fire engines to protect campus buildings and apartments on the eastern edge of the university.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, he said.
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