A dangerous brush fire broke out on Wednesday night in the Sepulveda Pass, prompting a swift response from both aerial and ground firefighting teams. Authorities managed to slow its progress, preventing further expansion into evacuation zones. However, another fire near Castaic, north of Los Angeles, spread rapidly due to extremely dry conditions and strong winds, forcing thousands to evacuate.
Firefighters Battle Sepulveda Pass Blaze
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) reported that their combined efforts in the air and on the ground had successfully contained the Sepulveda Pass fire. While initial evacuation warnings were issued, authorities confirmed that the fire had not expanded beyond its initial zone.
Hughes Fire Grows at an Alarming Rate
A more severe fire erupted near Castaic in the Angeles National Forest, known as the Hughes Fire. The fire started around 10:30 a.m. near the northbound 5 Freeway at Lake Hughes Road. Fueled by dry vegetation and strong winds, the fire spread at a shocking rate:
- By 11:00 a.m., it had already consumed 100 acres.
- By noon, it had expanded to 500 acres.
- By 12:30 p.m., the fire had grown to 3,400 acres.
- By 1:00 p.m., the estimated burn area had surpassed 5,000 acres.
- By 10:00 p.m., the fire had engulfed over 10,000 acres.
This rapid expansion made it one of the fastest-growing fires in recent months.
Mass Evacuations and Road Closures
Due to the fire’s intensity, evacuation orders were issued for about 31,000 people, while another 25,000 residents were placed under evacuation warnings. Several roads, including the 5 Freeway and surrounding ramps, were shut down to ensure safety.
Fire crews, including at least 12 water-dropping aircraft and one tanker, worked tirelessly to control the fire.
Winds and Weather Conditions Pose Challenges
Firefighters faced additional difficulties due to strong winds in the area.
- Morning winds ranged from 10-20 mph.
- The strongest gusts (40+ mph) were expected between midday and 6 p.m.
High winds make it difficult for aircraft to drop water and fire retardant accurately, affecting firefighting operations.
LA County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone acknowledged the challenge but assured the public that firefighters were gaining control.
“The fire remains difficult to contain, but we are getting the upper hand,” he stated.
Cause of the Fire and Previous Wildfires
The cause of the Hughes Fire is still unknown. The Angeles National Forest, where it began, has been closed since January 7 due to another destructive fire, the Eaton Fire.
Southern California has been experiencing severe drought conditions, making wildfires more likely. Despite record rainfall in 2023 and early 2024, the recent dry months have left the landscape covered in highly flammable vegetation.
“This vegetation is extremely dry,” said Fred Fielding, an LA County Fire spokesperson. “With strong winds, the fire spreads rapidly, making containment difficult.”
Connection to Recent Deadly Fires
The Hughes Fire erupted just as firefighters were making progress in containing two other major fires that started on January 7:
- Eaton Fire (northeast of Los Angeles) – 14,000 acres burned, 91% contained.
- Palisades Fire (Los Angeles County coast) – 23,400 acres burned, 68% contained.
These fires, which began during a Santa Ana windstorm, have already caused 28 deaths and destroyed thousands of buildings.
Wildfires continue to threaten Southern California, with the Hughes Fire growing rapidly and forcing tens of thousands to evacuate. Firefighters are battling dangerous conditions, including strong winds and dry brush, making containment challenging. As authorities work to protect lives and property, residents are urged to stay updated and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety.
