Fast-moving Hughes fire forces 20,000 to evacuate near L.A.

Nearly 20,000 residents north of Los Angeles were ordered to evacuate on Wednesday as the Hughes Fire, a fast-moving wildfire, erupted and grew to over 5,000 acres within hours.

An additional 15,000 people were placed under evacuation warnings as flames threatened the community of Castaic in northern Los Angeles County, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Fire Spreads Rapidly with Zero Containment

The Hughes Fire ignited at 10:53 a.m. near Castaic and had scorched 5,054 acres by 1:33 p.m., with no containment, fire officials reported. This blaze follows devastating fires earlier this month that claimed at least 27 lives and destroyed thousands of homes in the Los Angeles area.

The fire’s rapid spread prompted the closure of the northbound lanes of Interstate 5, a major highway running through California, Oregon, and Washington, the California Highway Patrol confirmed.

Critical Fire Conditions and Climate Concerns

The National Weather Service issued warnings of critical fire conditions, citing strong winds and extremely dry weather expected through Friday morning. Gusts of up to 55 mph posed challenges for containment efforts. Experts continue to highlight the connection between climate change and the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires across the region.

Scenes of Destruction and Pleas for Evacuation

Images showed massive plumes of smoke towering above the region, with flames consuming ridge lines. Despite evacuation orders, some residents chose to stay behind, hosing down homes and sealing vents to protect against embers.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger urged residents to evacuate, warning that high winds could ground firefighting aircraft. “I’m knocking on wood we contain this and it doesn’t affect any homes,” she said, describing Castaic as home to many first responders and their families.

Nearby Fires Add to the Strain

The Hughes Fire comes on the heels of two other significant wildfires. The Eaton Fire, which began on January 7 near Altadena, has burned over 14,000 acres and is now 91% contained. Meanwhile, the Palisades Fire, which ignited in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood, has scorched more than 23,000 acres and is 68% contained.

Both fires remain under investigation, with authorities working to determine their causes.

Urgency in Fighting the Flames

As firefighters battle the Hughes Fire, officials are urging residents to take evacuation orders seriously. With weather conditions worsening, the risk to lives and property remains high. The next few days will be critical in containing the blaze and preventing further devastation.