A new wildfire, called the Sepulveda Fire, has started near Interstate 405 and Sepulveda Blvd in Los Angeles. It ignited just hours after firefighters made progress containing the Hughes Fire in Los Angeles County.
Evacuations and Nearby Threats
Residents in Sherman Oaks received evacuation warnings late Wednesday night, though these warnings have since been lifted. However, smoke is visible around UCLA, Mount Saint Mary’s University, and the Getty Center. This fire is threatening valuable properties, some worth millions, according to real estate listings.
Current Status of Sepulveda Fire
As of now, the Sepulveda Fire has scorched about 40 acres. Firefighters are actively working to eliminate hot spots, supported by water-dropping helicopters and fire engines. Mayor Karen Bass confirmed the deployment of aerial and ground resources.
Hughes Fire Grows Rapidly
Meanwhile, the Hughes Fire, which started near Castaic Lake on Wednesday, has expanded to over 9,400 acres. It is currently 14% contained, with evacuation orders impacting 31,000 residents and warnings issued to 23,000 more.
Location and Response Efforts
The fire is affecting Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with Castaic—a community near the Angeles National Forest—being the hardest hit. Over 4,000 firefighting personnel are battling the fire using both ground teams and air support.
Challenges and Current Conditions
Firefighters describe the Hughes Fire as particularly difficult due to dry vegetation and steep terrain. However, calmer winds are helping crews conduct water drops overnight. Access to nearby reservoirs like Castaic Lake has also improved firefighting efforts.
Fire Chief Robert Garcia noted that while conditions are less severe than previous weeks, the dry brush in the area remains a significant challenge. “We are still facing critical fire conditions,” he said.
Evacuations Impact Schools and Jails
In response to the Hughes Fire, nearly 500 inmates from a Castaic jail were relocated to safer areas. Students from Castaic Middle and High Schools were evacuated to nearby locations, while local colleges, including College of the Canyons, remain closed as a precaution.
Ongoing Fire Threat in Southern California
The National Weather Service has extended its red flag warning until Friday morning, citing strong Santa Ana winds and extremely dry conditions. Officials warned that any new fire could spread rapidly and advised residents to stay alert.
Firefighters Continue the Battle
Cal Fire Chief Joe Tyler stressed that evacuees must follow instructions from authorities. “The situation remains dynamic, but we are working tirelessly to gain the upper hand,” Tyler said.
As of Thursday morning, fire crews remain focused on containment efforts while monitoring weather conditions that could worsen the situation.
