The region northwest of Los Angeles has seen some of California’s most destructive fires over the years. The Mountain Fire swiftly grew from less than half a square mile (about 1.2 square kilometers) to more than 16 square miles (41 square kilometers) in little more than five hours on Wednesday, with gusts topping 61 mph (98 kph).

Mountain Fire burns 20,630 acres, 14% contained Residents of 3,500 homes able to return but 2,000 remain under evacuation orders Red flag warning lifted after 132 buildings destroyed, 88 damaged Nov 8 (Reuters) - Firefighters started gaining control on ...