CASTAIC: A wildfire dubbed the Hughes Fire erupted north of Los Angeles on Wednesday, rapidly scorching over 9,400 acres (38 square km) of dry brush. Strong winds propelled the flames, prompting mandatory evacuations for more than 31,000 residents in the Castaic Lake area. Officials have warned of an “immediate threat to life” as the fire continues to spread.
Southern California on High Alert
The Hughes Fire comes as much of Southern California remains under a red-flag warning for extreme fire risk. With the region enduring nine months without significant rain, conditions have turned hazardous. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna reported that another 23,000 people face evacuation warnings.
In response to the crisis, 1,100 firefighters were deployed preemptively, and more than 4,000 are actively battling the Hughes Fire. Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone highlighted efforts to suppress the blaze, including aerial water drops and fire retardant sprays.
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Interstate 5, a major north-south highway, was temporarily closed in the Grapevine area due to poor visibility from smoke. Although it has since reopened, the fire’s intensity underscores the region’s vulnerability. The Angeles National Forest has closed its entire 700,000-acre park to visitors to ensure public safety.
Ongoing Wildfire Crisis
While firefighters gained control over two earlier deadly wildfires — the Eaton Fire (91% contained) and the Palisades Fire (68% contained) — the Hughes Fire is straining resources. Since January 7, the Eaton and Palisades fires have scorched nearly 38,000 acres combined, claimed 28 lives, and destroyed almost 16,000 structures.
Hope for Rain Relief
Though Southern California braces for more challenges, forecasters predict rain from Saturday through Monday, potentially providing much-needed relief for firefighters.
The economic toll of this wildfire season is staggering, with private forecaster AccuWeather estimating damages and losses exceeding $250 billion.
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