California wildfires force thousands to evacuate as homes go up in flames [Video]

California was lashed by powerful winds on Wednesday that fed a fast-moving wildfire, which destroyed dozens of homes and forced thousands of residents to flee as forecasters warned of the potential for “extreme and life-threatening” blazes.

Northwest of Los Angeles, the Mountain Fire exploded in size and prompted evacuation orders for more than 10,000 people as it threatened 3,500 structures in suburban communities, ranches and agricultural areas around Camarillo, according to a statement from Governor Gavin Newsom.

The area east of the Pacific coast city of Ventura will receive federal assistance after a request from Mr Newsom was granted, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said.

The blaze was burning in a region that has seen some of California’s most destructive fires over the years. A thick plume of smoke rose hundreds of feet into the sky on Wednesday, blanketing whole neighbourhoods and limiting visibility for firefighters and evacuees.

The fire grew from less than half of a square mile to …