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Wildfires Rage in Southern California: New Threat Emerges
As the Palisades and Eaton fires continue to pose challenges for emergency services two weeks after their onset, Southern California faces an additional threat with the emergence of the Hughes fire north of Santa Clarita. Evacuations are underway as officials strive to manage the situation.
The Hughes fire erupted under unknown circumstances shortly before 11 a.m. PST on Wednesday. Within just two hours, this quickly advancing wildfire, now classified as part of Los Angeles County incidents, has consumed over 5,000 acres and remains at 0% containment.
In response to these growing concerns, Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Margaret Stewart emphasized the current Red Flag Alert. This alert was issued early Monday due to anticipated strong winds and dry conditions that significantly elevate the risk of fire across the city. A Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone has been established in light of these forecasts.
The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department has reported that nearly 19,000 residents are currently under mandatory evacuation orders, with an additional 15,000 receiving evacuation warnings, as noted by The New York Times.
In the broader context of ongoing wildfires, the Palisades fire has burned roughly 23,448 acres and is now 68% contained, while the Eaton fire has affected about 14,021 acres, achieving 91% containment. Collectively, the wildfires since January 7, 2025, have scorched an area exceeding 40,462 acres, resulting in at least 28 fatalities and the destruction of approximately 15,798 structures.
More to come…
Source
www.thewrap.com