A fierce wildfire broke out north of Los Angeles on Wednesday, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate as it spread rapidly across the region still reeling from previous fires. The fire ignited near Castaic Lake, consuming 5,000 acres (2,000 hectares) in just over two hours.
Fueled by strong, dry Santa Ana winds, the flames quickly grew, sending large plumes of smoke and embers ahead of the fire front. Evacuations were ordered for around 19,000 people living near the lake, located approximately 35 miles north of Los Angeles and near Santa Clarita.
“I’m just praying that our house doesn’t burn down,” one man said as he hurriedly packed his car, speaking to KTLA.
This latest fire comes as the greater Los Angeles area is still recovering from two massive blazes that claimed over two dozen lives and destroyed thousands of homes.
Robert Jensen, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, urged residents in the fire’s path to evacuate immediately. “We’ve seen the devastation caused by people failing to follow evacuation orders in past fires,” he warned. “Please, if you’ve been ordered to leave, do so right away.”
Authorities were seen driving through neighborhoods, advising residents to evacuate. Air support was also on the scene, with helicopters and planes dropping water and fire retardant on the flames. Among the aircraft were two Super Scoopers, large amphibious planes capable of carrying hundreds of gallons of water.
Firefighters from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Angeles National Forest were also on the ground, battling the blaze.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but it started during red flag conditions, when meteorologists warn that dry winds and low humidity create prime conditions for fast-spreading fires.
