California wildfires
Get out now: New wildfire in Los Angeles prompts evacuation orders
A new explosive wildfire burning around Castaic Lake is threatening parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, prompting fresh evacuation orders.

The Hughes Fire ignited on the morning of January 22 near Lake Hughes Road, north of Magic Mountain. It has already burned through 9,400 acres, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE).
This fast-moving blaze has forced road closures, including sections of the heavily trafficked Interstate 5. “All lanes of northbound & southbound I-5 are CLOSED through the Grapevine due to the Hughes Fire. Northbound lanes are closed at State Route 126. Southbound lanes are closed at Grapevine Road. Use alternate routes,” the California Department of Transportation announced.
Evacuation orders: areas impacted by the Hughes Fire
Residents in the following areas have been ordered to evacuate immediately:
- Reys Adobe
- Francisquito
- Tessoro Del Valle
- Bitter Canyon
- Sterling Lane and Sterling
- Biscaulz
- Charlie Canyon
- Castaic Lake
- Ridge Route
- Paradise Ranch Road
- North Lake Elementary
- Sloan Canyon Road
- Green Hill Drive
- Hill Crest Park Way
- Romeaow Canyon Drive
- Hasley Canyon
- Canebridge
The fire is expected to spread further overnight as strong winds intensify, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Residents can check the evacuation status of their area through the Genasys Protect platform or at the LA County emergency website.
California’s wildfire crisis: Hughes, Eaton, and Palisades Fires
Wildfires continue to wreak havoc across California. The Eaton and Palisades fires in Los Angeles County remain among the most destructive this season.
- Eaton Fire: Spread over 14,021 acres, now 91% contained.
- Palisades Fire: Burned 23,448 acres, currently 68% contained.
- Hughes Fire: Currently the most pressing threat, with 9,400 acres burned and 0% containment reported.
Other fires across the state include the Lilac Fire in San Diego, which has burned 85 acres and is 90% contained, and the Clay Fire in Riverside, which has spread to 38 acres with 45% containment. The Center Fire in Bernardo, San Diego remains uncontained, covering 4 acres.
What’s next? preparing for more fire activity
California’s wildfire season shows no sign of slowing, with conditions like high winds and dry vegetation fueling rapid fire growth. Residents in affected areas should prepare for possible evacuations, monitor local alerts, and avoid fire-impacted roads.
For the latest updates on containment efforts and evacuation statuses, visit CAL FIRE’s website or tune in to local emergency broadcasts.
Original article written by Corina González, translated with the assistance of AI and edited by Greg Heilman.
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