Just a reminder that several websites contain updated information regarding the Thomas Fire.
Readyventuracounty.org‘s most recent update shows that the Thomas Fire is currently at 281,620 Acres with 89% Containment
Air quality is listed as moderate on https://airnow.gov. However,readyventuracounty.org notes that air quality should be considered unhealthy in areas directly impacted by smoke, especially in the Ojai Valley and surrounding areas where air quality is extremely poor.
Wildfires dramatically alter the natural landscape by removing vegetation and exposing soil to wind and rain. These changes substantially increase the risk of flash floods and debris flows, even in areas not usually prone to these hazards.
Normally, grasses, shrubs and trees slow rainfall and improve soil absorption. Leaf litter further protects the soil from erosive rainfall. Wildfires burn vegetation and leaf litter to ash, leaving the soil exposed and less able to absorb rain.
On December 11, 2017, the City announced that leaf blowers have been temporarily prohibited due to poor air quality and the risk of spreading more ash, smoke and particulates into the air. Public health officials have continued to caution against the use of leaf blowers to clean up ash, which causes ash to become airborne and increases the risk of ash being inhaled by residents and animals. The City is extending the ban, which will now be in effect indefinitely.
The County of Ventura has issued an advisory strongly recommending NO USE OF LEAFBLOWERS UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. Please click the link below to view. As a reminder, the City has temporarily prohibited the use of leafblowers within City limits.
The City of Ojai has had three successful days of street sweeping, using water trucks for dust control (ending yesterday, Wednesday 12/20/17). The City plans to do the same on Tuesday and Wednesday next week (12/26 and 12/27), focusing on streets that were not cleaned and continuing to focus on downtown areas, schools, and care facilities.