Community meeting in Ventura set for those affected by the Thomas Fire

Staff reports

A community meeting for those affected by the Thomas Fire is planned for noon Saturday in the auditorium of Buena High School, the city of Ventura announced Friday evening.

A firefighter sprays down a smoldering home in a Ventura hillside neighborhood on Tuesday as the Thomas Fire burned nearly 50,000 acres between Santa Paula and Ventura.

Residents will receive updates about the fire and hear from city and county officials about public health, debris removal, housing and other human services.

Read more:Thomas Fire live updates

After the presentation, a number of agencies will have representatives available, including utility companies, the Red Cross and Ventura Unified School District. They will be available in the Buena High's cafeteria to answer questions and provide information.

The event can also be viewed live on Community Access Partners San Buenaventura channels 15 and 6 and live streamed at capsmedia.org.

"The recovery for the Thomas Fire is a long-term process, and the city thanks its residents for their patience," the news release said.

An estimated 532 structures have been destroyed by the Thomas Fire, which started Monday night near Steckel Park in Santa Paula, according to Cal Fire officials. More than 87,000 people have been evacuated since the fire swept through Santa Paula, Ventura, Ojai and Fillmore.

More community meetings organized by the city are expected. 

Buena High is at 5670 Telegraph Road, Ventura.