New Wildfire Burns 38 Square Kilometers in Los Angeles, 31,000 People Evacuated

New Wildfire Burns 38 Square Kilometers in Los Angeles, 31,000 People Evacuated

California, January 23 – A new wildfire has broken out north of Los Angeles, rapidly spreading across more than 9,400 acres (38 square kilometers). Strong winds and dry vegetation have intensified the flames. As a result, mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for 31,300 people.

The Hughes Fire spread to the Castake Lake area, located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) north of Los Angeles. Due to the growing intensity of the fire, local authorities issued an immediate warning about the "life-threatening" situation, and firefighters are working swiftly to contain the blaze.

Fire Risk and Evacuation Orders

A red-flag warning has been issued across much of Southern California, indicating high fire risk. Local authorities have announced that 31,000 people have been ordered to evacuate, while another 23,000 people have been put on alert for possible evacuation.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna reported that the fire has had a significant impact on local areas, with flames at times spreading to roadways, temporarily shutting down the Interstate 5 highway. However, thanks to the efforts of firefighters, the highway has since been reopened.

Two Major Wildfires Under Control

California is currently facing two major fires, the Eaton Fire and the Palisades Fire, both of which started on January 7. The situation is improving with these fires. The Eaton Fire is 91% contained, having burned 14,021 acres, while the Palisades Fire, which scorched 23,448 acres, is 68% contained.

So far, these two fires have resulted in 28 deaths and have damaged or destroyed nearly 16,000 structures. According to the California Fire Department, the economic damage from these fires could exceed $250 billion.

Fire Disaster and Hope for Rain

Southern California has not seen significant rainfall for the past 9 months, making the fire situation even more dangerous. However, forecasts indicate the possibility of some rain between Saturday and Monday, which could help the firefighting efforts and aid in bringing the fire under control.

Latest Situation

Currently, the California Fire Department has deployed nearly 4,000 firefighters and 1,100 additional personnel to help control the fire. However, authorities have warned that the situation remains critical and could change rapidly.

So far, most of the smaller and medium-sized fires have been brought under control, but the Hughes Fire continues to spread, and firefighting efforts are ongoing.