The "Post Fire" has swelled to over 15,000 acres near Gorman, California, affecting Los Angeles and Ventura counties and prompting evacuations. First reported on Saturday afternoon near Gorman School Road and Ralph’s Ranch Road, the wildfire's rapid expansion was exacerbated by strong winds that have continued through the weekend, as reported by CBS Los Angeles.

By Monday, the containment of the blaze had reached 8%, however, firefighting efforts were being hampered by the gusty conditions. Flying embers have been a particular challenge, with winds spreading them more than a mile away. "The wind has been a major factor along with the dry fuels along with the terrain," said Craig Little with the L.A. County Fire Department, according to CBS Los Angeles. The same strong winds, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph, prompted the California Highway Patrol to shut down southbound lanes near Gorman, due to another grass fire sparked in the region, which has since reopened.

More than 1,200 people have been evacuated near Pyramid Lake and the Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area, while residents south of Pyramid Lake have been issued an evacuation warning, per KTLA's information. Los Angeles County Fire Department Chief Kenichi Haskett described the firefighters' battle against the strong winds and said, "More than anything, the firefighters are challenged by the strong winds." 

An air quality alert is also in effect for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, due to the smoke released from the fire, which has led to poor air quality conditions. NBC Los Angeles noted that "Northwesterly winds will again push smoke from the Post Fire southeast towards the San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita, and the Angeles National Forest." Residents have been advised to remain indoors and limit physical activity, and those who must be outside should consider wearing a properly fitted N95 or P100 respirator for protection.

According to an update from Hoodline, over 1,100 firefighters from several fire agencies are working to contain the fire, with CAL FIRE providing aerial support to combat the flames. Their efforts have been somewhat compromised due to limited visibility. D.C. Williams with the California Highway Patrol told Hoodline, "It started as a brush fire. That did jump the road and went over and unfortunately took out the auto shop and some cars in the parking lot. Fortunately enough, it missed a school."