Driven by powerful Santa Ana winds, the Mountain Fire in Ventura County forced more than 10,000 people to evacuate from their homes as it exploded by thousands of acres within hours, injuring people and destroying homes in its path.

A rapidly moving wildfire known as the Mountain Fire exploded in Ventura County, California, on Wednesday, knocking out power, destroying homes and prompting evacuations as firefighters struggled to contain it.

A fast-moving wildfire in Southern California has engulfed dozens of homes and forced more than 10,000 to evacuate. The Mountain Fire threatens 3,500 structures around Camarillo in Ventura County, according to California Gov.