Wildfire burns 8,500 acres in Southern California’s Ventura County, 10 percent contained

Southern California wildfire burns 8,500 acres

MOORPARK, Calif. — A wind-whipped wildfire burning in the rural hills above Ventura County in Southern California has spread over 8,500 acres, or more than 13 square miles.

County fire spokesman Bill Nash said the blaze was 10 percent contained late Tuesday and an unknown number of evacuations were lifted in areas south of Broadway Road and north of Guiberson Road.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger earlier Tuesday declared a state of emergency for the county, freeing up state resources to battle the fire.

More hot, dry weather and light to moderate Santa Ana winds are forecast for Wednesday.