The Hughes Fire raging in northwestern Los Angeles County has consumed over 10,000 acres and remains stubbornly resistant to containment efforts, with only 14% controlled as of Thursday. Driven by powerful winds, the fire, which ignited Wednesday morning near Castaic, has prompted the deployment of over 4,000 fire personnel.
"Weather conditions, specifically strong winds under a red flag warning, are the primary factor fueling the fire's rapid spread," stated Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone. Despite the challenges, Marrone expressed optimism about gaining control of the situation.
A residence engulfed in flames during the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles, California, on January 11, 2025. (REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton)
Around 50,000 residents have been forced to evacuate due to the Hughes Fire's advance. The blaze also led to temporary closures on Interstate 5 on Wednesday. Authorities issued urgent evacuation orders for residents near Castaic Lake, Paradise Ranch, and the Ridge Route, emphasizing the immediate threat to life and safety.
A helicopter drops water on the Palisades Fire in the Encino neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, on January 11, 2025. (REUTERS/Daniel Dreifuss)
A separate fire erupted in the Sepulveda Pass near Sherman Oaks. Initially reported as a one-acre fire, the Los Angeles Fire Department has since contained its spread to approximately 40 acres, lifting evacuation warnings for the area. No injuries or structural damage were reported.
Mayor Karen Bass acknowledged the ongoing fire-fighting efforts and urged residents to remain vigilant and comply with safety instructions from officials. "Aggressive measures, including air support, have been deployed to combat the new fire east of the 405," she communicated via X (formerly Twitter).
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass departing a press conference at the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center following the wildfires in Los Angeles, California, on January 14, 2025. (REUTERS/Daniel Cole)
These recent fires add to the already devastating wildfire season gripping California, as firefighters continue their relentless battle against destructive blazes across the Southern California region.
