Ranch fire threatens Piru and Fillmore

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Piru:

Firefighters were aggressively fighting the Ranch Fire at its eastern flank, hoping to keep the flames trapped north of Highway 126. By 6 p.m., the fire had burned 41,000 acres of heavy brush and chaparral, and was threatening the Ventura County communities of Piru and Fillmore.

It had destroyed three homes and three outbuildings, and prompted evacuation recommendations for an estimated 2,000 residents in Piru and Fillmore. Heavy smoke was visible throughout the day and prompted the closure of Highway 126 between Piru and Chiquita Canyon Road to the east in Los Angeles County.

Several canyon neighborhoods in Los Angeles County near Newhall were also evacuated as flames raced west, pushed by the strong winds.

Ranch Fire statistics, as of 6 p.m.:

• 7 structures destroyed (3 homes and 4 outbuildings)
• 767 firefighters on scene.
• 2,000 recommended evacuated (Piru and Fillmore). No deaths, no injuries.
• 41,000 acres
• Containment expected Oct. 31.

-- Kay Saillant