Table of Contents
Corral Fire (Incidents)
The Corral Fire is a significant wildfire incident that left an indelible mark on the history of California wildfires. Known for its intensity and the challenges it posed to firefighting efforts, the Corral Fire serves as a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires in the region. This article delves into the details of the Corral Fire, its impact, and the lessons learned from this devastating event.
The Corral Fire was a wildfire that burned from November 24 to November 27, 2007, in Malibu Creek State Park. The fire burned 4,901 acres (20 km²) of land, forced the evacuation of 10,000–14,000 residents in Los Angeles, and injured seven firefighters.
By June 5, containment had reached 94%, and the remaining 10 personnel continued to monitor and secure the area. The next morning, June 6, by 8:05 AM, containment was reported at 98%, and by 6:02 PM, the fire was officially declared fully contained at 100%. Throughout the course of the fire, two firefighters sustained injuries, and the estimated cost to manage and contain the blaze was approximately $3.5 million USD (2024).
Malibu Creek State Park, Los Angeles, California
| Corral Fire | |
| June 1 – June 6, 2007 | |
| Name of Fire | Corral Fire |
| Location | Malibu Creek State Park, Los Angeles, California |
| Start | 4:30 p.m |
| Containment Date | June 6, 2007 |
| Area Burned | 14,168 acres |
| Evacuations | 10,000–14,000 residents |
| Structures Destroyed | 86 structures (including 49 homes) |
| Structures Damaged | 27 structures |
| Injuries | 7 firefighters |
| Economic Impact | Over $100 million in damages |
| Governor’s Action | Reactivation of the state of emergency by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger |
History
Response and Management
The response to the Corral Fire involved multiple agencies, including the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), and local law enforcement. Firefighters faced immense challenges due to the rugged terrain and strong winds, which made containment efforts difficult. Despite these challenges, the coordinated efforts of various agencies helped in eventually bringing the fire under control.
One of the critical aspects of the response was the use of aerial firefighting techniques, including water-dropping helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft equipped with fire retardants. These efforts were crucial in slowing the spread of the fire and protecting key areas from further damage.
Growth and Containment Table
| Date | Area burned | Personnel | Containment |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 1 | 10,000 acres (40 km²) | Unknown | 13% |
| June 2 | 14,168 acres (57 km²) | 475 | 50% |
| June 3 | 14,168 acres (57 km²) | 475 | 50% |
| June 4 | 14,168 acres (57 km²) | 20 | 50% |
| June 5 | 14,168 acres (57 km²) | 10 | 50% |
| June 6 | 14,168 acres (57 km²) | 3 |
