Los Angeles: Firefighters are working to contain a new blaze, the Sepulveda Fire, which ignited near Interstate 405 and Sepulveda Boulevard in Los Angeles late Wednesday. This incident comes as crews made progress on the Hughes Fire, a rapidly spreading wildfire in Los Angeles County that has already forced thousands to evacuate.
The Sepulveda Fire has scorched approximately 20 acres, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire). The fire triggered evacuation warnings for Sherman Oaks residents, though these have since been lifted. Key landmarks, including the UCLA and Mount Saint Mary’s University campuses and the Getty Center, implemented fire safety protocols as a precaution.
Mayor Karen Bass confirmed via social media that "air support and other aggressive actions" have been deployed to tackle the Sepulveda Fire.
Hughes Fire Continues to Threaten Communities
Meanwhile, the Hughes Fire, which erupted near Castaic Lake on Wednesday morning, has consumed over 10,000 acres and remains only 14% contained. Evacuation orders affect approximately 31,000 residents, while 23,000 others are under evacuation warnings, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna stated.
Over 4,000 firefighting personnel are engaged in the response, which includes a robust combination of ground and aerial efforts, according to Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone.
"The fire remains dynamic and challenging, but we are gaining the upper hand," Marrone said during a press briefing.
Evacuations and Closures
The fire’s proximity to critical infrastructure prompted partial evacuations of a Castaic jail, affecting 470 inmates, and the relocation of students from local schools to safer areas. College of the Canyons' Valencia and Canyon Country campuses have been closed as a precaution.
The blaze has also impacted air quality, with smoke visible as far south as Oxnard, Ventura County, officials said.
Favorable Conditions Aid Firefighting Efforts
Unlike recent wildfires hindered by powerful winds, current conditions have allowed firefighting helicopters to conduct overnight water drops, providing crucial support. Fire officials noted that while winds have temporarily subsided, red flag warnings remain in effect across Los Angeles and Ventura counties through Friday morning.
The National Weather Service cautioned that “dangerous fire weather conditions” persist, with vegetation remaining critically dry and susceptible to ignition.
Ongoing Challenges and Damage Assessment
The Hughes Fire’s rapid spread has been fueled by steep terrain and dense brush, with fire models predicting further movement south and west from its origin near Castaic Lake.
The US Forest Service has closed Angeles National Forest to the public through January 24 to ensure safety as firefighting efforts continue.
Wider Context
The Hughes Fire adds to a devastating fire season in Southern California, including the Palisades and Eaton Fires, which together have scorched over 40,000 acres and claimed at least 28 lives since January 7.
As emergency crews work tirelessly, authorities urge residents to follow evacuation orders and remain vigilant.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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