Hughes Fire Rages in Los Angeles County, Prompting Evacuations and Threatening Thousands of Acres

A Fast-Moving Fire Engulfs Los Angeles County

A rapidly spreading brush fire ignited in Los Angeles County on Wednesday morning, consuming over 8,000 acres with no containment in sight. Dubbed the Hughes Fire, the blaze erupted around 10:30 a.m. near Castaic Lake, roughly 80 kilometers northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Fueled by dry vegetation and gusting Santa Ana winds, the fire quickly expanded, crossing county lines into neighboring Ventura County.

The fire's rapid growth prompted mandatory evacuations for approximately 19,000 residents. Students from local schools and the Castaic Sports Complex were evacuated, with the complex serving as a command post for firefighters. Additionally, the Pitchess Detention Center in Castaic evacuated 476 inmates to a nearby facility.

This latest wildfire adds to a string of deadly blazes that have ravaged Los Angeles County this month. The Palisades and Eaton fires, the largest in the county's history, have claimed 28 lives, sparked numerous evacuations, and destroyed thousands of structures.

The National Weather Service warns that high winds are expected to persist throughout the afternoon and overnight, further hindering firefighting efforts. Meteorologist Ariel Cohen emphasizes the volatile situation and urges residents to remain prepared.