LOS ANGELES – The fast growing one Mountain fire in Ventura County exploded across more than 14,500 acres, destroying several homes in Camarillo, Moorpark and Somis and threatening thousands more as mandatory evacuation orders are in effect.

The fire is being driven by Santa Ana winds combined with dry conditions in the area, prompting an Air Quality Alert due to smoke and blown dust impacts, according to the National Weather Service.

SUGGESTED: Wildfire burns to more than 14,000 acres and destroys homes in Camarillo, Moorpark, Somis

The air quality alert is in effect until 4:00 PM Thursday for all Ventura County.

“Strong Santa Ana winds will prevail throughout the day, stirring up high dust levels across most of the county,” forecasters said. “For areas directly affected by the dust, particulate levels may be elevated for several hours and could reach unhealthy levels.”

Those directly affected by the dust are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid outdoor activities. People with health problems, the elderly and children are also advised to stay indoors during this time. Doors and windows must remain closed as long as the alert remains active.

Additionally, forecasters said humidity levels are expected to drop to 8 percent to 15 percent, giving the region a dangerous combination of dry and windy conditions.

SUGGESTED: Camarillo homes have been destroyed by a massive wildfire burning in Ventura County

The NWS said residents should expect a high risk of power outages and public safety disruptions during this time.

Weather alerts

Critical Fire Weather Red Flag Warnings are in effect for the following:

• Until Thursday at 6 p.m. in Valea Antelopei;
• Until 6:00 PM Thursday for LA County Beaches and Palos Verdes Hills;
• Until 6 p.m. Thursday in the Santa Clarita Valley, Malibu Coast and San Fernando Valley, with a “red flag warning for extremely hazardous situations” in effect in those areas from 9 a.m. Wednesday until 4 p.m. Wednesday;
• By 6 p.m. Thursday in Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Antelope Valley Foothills and San Gabriel Valley;
• Until Thursday at 6pm for the Santa Ana Mountains
• Until Thursday at 6:00 PM for Catalina Island and the inland coast of LA County, including downtown Los Angeles.
• Until 6 p.m. Thursday for coastal areas of Orange County
• Until Friday at 11 o’clock on the Autostrada 5 corridor;
• By 11 a.m. Friday in the Santa Monica Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains and Highway 14 Recreation Area

You can check the air quality in your neighborhood by by tapping or clicking here.

For the latest bushfire information, tap or click here.