By Redaccion
Redaccion@latinocc.com
A rapidly spreading wildfire, named the Hughes Fire, ignited Wednesday morning near Lake Hughes Road, north of Magic Mountain, consuming over 8,000 acres by early afternoon.
The blaze has led to mandatory evacuation orders for approximately 19,000 residents in the Castaic area.
Evacuation Orders and Affected Areas
Authorities have issued evacuation orders for several communities, including:
• Castaic Lake
• Ridge Route
• Paradise Ranch Road
• North Lake Elementary
• Sloan Canyon Road
• Green Hill Drive
• Hill Crest Parkway
• Romeo Canyon Drive
• Hasley Canyon
• Cane Bridge area
Residents in these zones are urged to evacuate immediately.
Impact on Transportation
The California Department of Transportation has announced the closure of all lanes of Interstate 5 in both directions near Grapevine due to the Hughes Fire. Northbound lanes are closed at State Route 126, and southbound lanes are closed at Grapevine Road. Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes.
Firefighting Efforts and Conditions
The Los Angeles County Fire Department, in collaboration with the United States Forest Service, has deployed numerous resources to combat the fire. However, strong winds and critically dry vegetation are contributing to the rapid spread of the flames. A red flag warning is in effect for parts of Los Angeles County, indicating high fire danger due to expected wind gusts potentially reaching 50 miles per hour.
Other Active Wildfires
In addition to the Hughes Fire, the region is contending with other significant wildfires. The Eaton Fire has burned approximately 13,690 acres and is 91% contained, while the Palisades Fire has consumed around 20,438 acres with 68% containment. Both fires have caused extensive damage and forced thousands to evacuate.
Community Resources and Safety Measures
Evacuation centers have been established for displaced residents, and the American Red Cross is providing assistance. Authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to evacuation orders and staying informed through official channels. Residents can check their evacuation status on the Genasys Protect portal.
Cause Under Investigation
The cause of the Hughes Fire is currently under investigation. Officials urge the public to report any suspicious activities and to exercise caution during this critical time.
