Firefighters are currently battling two major brush fires in Los Angeles County, posing a significant threat to residents and properties in the area. The Sepulveda Fire, located near Interstate 405 and Sepulveda Blvd, has burned approximately 20 acres, prompting evacuation warnings for residents in Sherman Oaks. Air support and aggressive firefighting actions have been deployed to combat the blaze.
Meanwhile, the Hughes Fire, which started near Castaic Lake, has spread rapidly, burning over 10,000 acres across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Despite the fire being 14% contained, thousands of residents are under evacuation orders and warnings. The fire has not caused any structural damage or casualties so far.
Fire officials are facing challenges due to the dry, grassy hills in the affected areas, making containment efforts critical. However, current conditions are more favorable compared to previous weeks, allowing for better firefighting strategies. The National Weather Service has extended a red flag warning for most of Los Angeles and Ventura counties due to ongoing Santa Ana winds, which are expected to peak and then gradually weaken by Friday morning.
The Hughes Fire has led to the evacuation of a county jail in Castaic and several schools in the region. Inmates and students have been relocated to safer locations as a precautionary measure. The fire's impact has been visible as far as Oxnard in Ventura County, with satellite data indicating potential further spread towards Castaic.
Authorities are urging residents to follow evacuation orders and stay informed about the rapidly changing fire conditions. With a robust firefighting response in place, efforts are being made to contain the fires and ensure the safety of the affected communities.
The Angeles National Forest has been closed to the public as a safety measure until January 24. The situation remains dynamic, and officials are closely monitoring the fires to prevent further escalation.
