Wildfire — Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area, California

2018-11-08 to 2018-11-22 · Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area, California

Event narrative

The Woolsey Fire burned 96,949 across in Ventura and Los Angeles county. The fire ignited during a strong Santa Ana wind event. Gusty north to northeast winds (in excess of 60 MPH) and very dry conditions allowed the fire to spread very quickly. In total, the Woolsey Fire destroyed 1,643 structures (including 400 homes) and damaged an additional 364 structures. Three deaths were attributed to the fire. Two deaths occurred when an SUV was overrun by flames and the third death occurred in a destroyed home.

Wider weather episode

The Woolsey Fire burned 96,949 acres in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, destroying over 1500 structures. The fire ignited during a strong Santa Ana wind event and the combination of gusty winds and very dry conditions allowed the fire to spread very quickly.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 795858. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.