The Hughes Fire, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds and dry vegetation, rapidly consumed over 5,000 acres in the Castaic area of Southern California, prompting mandatory evacuations for thousands of residents.
The Hughes Fire erupted in the Castaic area of Southern California on Wednesday, rapidly consuming over 5,000 acres and prompting mandatory evacuations. The blaze, first reported before 11 a.m., was fueled by strong Santa Ana winds and dry vegetation, spreading at an alarming rate. Within hours, the fire had scorched 5,054 acres, forcing evacuations from Castaic Lake and extending into the heart of Castaic . Warnings stretched towards Santa Clarita and even reached the Ventura County line.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna reported that approximately 19,000 people were under mandatory evacuation orders, while another 16,000 were advised to prepare for possible evacuation. The fire's rapid growth was attributed to strong winds and the extensive dry brush, leading to widespread fire spotting. Multiple roadways were closed, including Ridge Route Road at Templin Highway and the Golden State (5) Freeway between Grapevine Road and state Route 126. Firefighters from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Angeles National Forest battled the flames, assisted by over a dozen water- and retardant-dropping aircraft. The cause of the fire remained unknown, but it ignited during persistent red flag fire conditions, which were initially expected to expire Thursday night but were subsequently extended until 10 a.m. Friday. Local schools were evacuated as a precaution, with students taken to designated safe locations. A temporary evacuation center was established at Hart High School, while animal shelters were opened to accommodate displaced pets. As the fire continued to burn, officials urged residents to remain vigilant and follow all evacuation orders and instructions from emergency personnel
Hughes Fire Castaic Evacuation Santa Ana Winds Wildfire Southern California
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