New California Wildfire Breaks Out North Of Los Angeles
As Southern California battles multiple fires, firefighters are facing yet another blaze this time, near the 405 Freeway in Los Angeles. The Sepulveda Fire broke out on Wednesday evening, quickly adding pressure to already strained emergency crews working to contain the devastating Hughes Fire, which had spread rapidly throughout the day.
The Sepulveda Fire: A New Threat in a Region on Edge
The Sepulveda Fire, which has burned approximately 40 acres, was first reported hours after crews had made progress on containing the Hughes Fire in nearby Castaic. An evacuation warning was issued for parts of Sherman Oaks late Wednesday night, but the warning has since been lifted. However, thick smoke continued to drift through the area, even near prominent locations such as UCLA’s campus, Mount Saint Mary’s University, and the Getty Center. The Getty, a cultural landmark, has activated fire protection protocols, ensuring it is protected from the rapidly spreading fire.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has been quick to respond, with air support and ground crews actively working through the night. Water-dropping aircraft have been deployed, making aggressive efforts to contain the fire before it spreads further. The LAFD continues to monitor and address remaining hot spots, with crews expected to remain on-site through the morning.
Hughes Fire: A Larger, Ongoing Battle in Los Angeles County
Meanwhile, the battle against the Hughes Fire, which is currently burning out of control in both Los Angeles and Ventura counties, remains a critical concern. The fire, which had consumed over 10,000 acres by Thursday morning, is only 14% contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire).
Evacuation orders remain in place for over 30,000 residents in Castaic and surrounding areas, with an additional 23,000 individuals under evacuation warnings. Although no structures have been reported as destroyed or damaged, the fire remains a formidable challenge for firefighters. Chief Anthony Marrone of the Los Angeles County Fire Department noted that more than 4,000 firefighting personnel are assigned to the fire, with extensive ground and air resources being used in the containment efforts.
“The situation remains dynamic, and while we are making progress, the fire remains difficult to contain,” Marrone said in a Wednesday evening update. Firefighters continue to work tirelessly to keep the fire from spreading further and threatening more communities.
Critical Fire Threat in Southern California
With both fires raging simultaneously, Southern California is facing a critical fire threat. The region, already prone to wildfires due to dry conditions, continues to be challenged by rapidly changing weather patterns and high winds. Local authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant, particularly in the most affected areas, as the fires continue to test the limits of emergency response teams.
As Southern California residents brace for more intense fire season conditions, communities are coming together to support first responders, share information, and help those in need. For now, authorities remain focused on stopping the spread of these fires, with fire crews working around the clock to contain both blazes before they can do more damage.