- Hughes Fire prompts mass evacuations: More than 31,000 residents have been forced to leave, with the fire swelling to 10,000 acres.
- Extreme fire weather conditions: Strong Santa Ana winds and very low humidity are fueling wildfires across Southern California, leading to critical Red Flag warnings.
- Mudslide risks loom: Officials worry Saturday’s expected rain could trigger mudslides and flooding in freshly burned areas.
Hughes Fire Erupts in Northern Los Angeles County
A new wildfire called the Hughes Fire has erupted in northern Los Angeles County, triggering another round of mandatory evacuation orders for California wildfires. Blistering Santa Ana winds and arid conditions keep Southern California on high alert.
On Wednesday, officials ordered 31,000 residents to leave their homes. They placed another 23,000 under evacuation warnings, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna. Low humidity and strong gusts continue to fuel the blaze.
The National Weather Service Los Angeles (NWS Los Angeles) described the situation as a “DANGEROUS fire day TODAY” on X, warning that winds will intensify and the air will remain very dry. These conditions follow recent “critical” fire weather that sparked the Palisades and Eaton Fires, burning nearly 38,000 acres. NWS Los Angeles also noted that Los Angeles and Ventura Counties are at critical Red Flag levels, cautioning that any new fire could spread quickly.

Red-Flag Conditions and Evacuations Intensify
Firefighters are battling a fast-moving blaze in Southern California that has dramatically grown over the past day. Authorities warn that Thursday poses the highest threat. The Hughes Fire, located about 45 miles (72 km) north of Los Angeles, has swelled to 10,000 acres (4,000 hectares) and prompted mandatory evacuation orders for California wildfires, affecting tens of thousands of residents in an area already shaken by historic destruction.
Forecasters say strong winds will challenge crews who have contained 14% of the fire’s perimeter. This blaze sits north of two massive fires ravaging Los Angeles County neighborhoods. The National Weather Service extended a red-flag warning for Los Angeles and Ventura counties until Friday morning, citing extremely dry conditions and continued gusts. Officials stress that any new fire could spread quickly, urging people to prepare.
On Wednesday, more than 31,000 residents evacuated as towering flames and thick smoke rose in the hilly Castaic Lake region, home to many neighborhoods and schools. Local broadcasts showed neighbors soaking their homes and gardens with hoses and quickly packing to leave.
Two additional fires started Wednesday in Southern California, specifically near San Diego and Oceanside. Fire crews contained the Lilac Fire after it burned 85 acres, while the separate Center Fire covered four acres. Both blazes affected populated areas, but most evacuation orders have been lifted.
Climate Change, Winds, and Upcoming Rain Heighten Risks
Winds in the area currently blow at about 20-30 mph (32-48 km/h). Still, they could intensify, making firefighting efforts more difficult, especially for aircrews. Scientists point to climate change as increasing the dryness of local grasses and shrubs. Over recent years, rapid swings between wet and dry conditions have also created plenty of tinder-like vegetation ready to ignite.
According to Dana Dierkes, spokesperson for the Angeles National Forest, strong winds and dry vegetation have made these fires more difficult to control. “We don’t have a fire season in California; we have a fire year,” Dierkes said. “We’ve seen wildfires in January before, but Santa Ana winds worsen it, especially in dry conditions.”
Officials worry that anticipated rain this Saturday could lead to mudslides, flooding, and landslides. Recently burned areas face higher risks because scorched ground can absorb less water.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj029138n4zo
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