The strong winds of Santa Ana, who did not allow fire service in California during the week to take control of the fire, began to weaken. Despite this, the fire continues to spread North and West to the boundary of the County of Santa Barbara.
To fight several fires that broke out in the area from Groaning to Oceanside and spread on 578 square metres (143 thousand acres) were sent 4 thousands of firefighters, 24 helicopters, some «aircraft-tanks» and the supertanker on the basis of a Boeing 747. According to officials, all were relieved 712 thousand gallons of water.
Firefighting plane drops fire retardant as an outbreak of wildfires continues to burn across Southern California. https://t.co/1GnZHbNp8F pic.twitter.com/z6ZmgOZfva
— ABC News (@ABC) December 8, 2017
At the moment it is known only about one victim. It was a 70-year-old Virginia Pesola of Santa Paula, whose body was found at the scene of a car accident. According to police, she died due to smoke inhalation and thermal injuries.
Many residents were allowed to return to their homes, faced with another serious problem – the appalling pollution.
Phil Moyer, a specialist in air quality, said that the level of pollution in Ojai was overwhelming – more than 500 points. This figure is indeed high, when you consider that, beginning with 151 points – the air is considered unhealthy for humans.
In addition, the effects of smoke and dust causes irritation of eyes, nose and throat, coughing, nausea, headaches and even nosebleeds. For this reason, southern California hospitals overflowing with patients with breathing problems.
#RedFlagWarnings in effect until Saturday covering much of Southern California. Extremely dry conditions and #SantaAnaWinds will continue to elevate fire danger. Prepare now to ensure if evacuated you and your family are ready to GO!: https://t.co/vpyKMHygCF pic.twitter.com/ynFTsKcWag
— CAL FIRE (@CAL_FIRE) December 7, 2017
