<p>Around 27,000 people were ordered to evacuate their homes in Ventura County, California, on December 5, as a rapidly spreading brush fire grew to 31,000 acres and destroyed 150 structures, the Ventura County Fire Department said</a>.</p><p>Local media reported</a> that one person had died as a result of the blaze, known as the Thomas Fire. The Ventura County Fire Department also said</a> one firefighter had also been injured in the blaze.</p><p>The Thomas Fire was first reported at around 6:25 pm</a> and was said to be moving at a “rapid rate,” according to the Ventura County Fire Department</a>.</p><p>Strong winds in the area, recorded at 43 mph with gusts over 60 mph</a>, fueled the fire. Credit: Instagram/boostedbosslady via Storyful</p><br />
