Massive Brush Fire Threatens Homes in Gorman, Evacuations Ordered

A massive brush fire has engulfed the Gorman area north of Los Angeles, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The inferno, known as the Post Fire, has already consumed a staggering 12,265 acres and is currently only 2% contained. State fire officials are on high alert as strong winds are predicted to exacerbate the situation.

The blaze has posed a significant threat to nearby structures, prompting the mandatory evacuation of approximately 1,200 individuals from the Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area. Additionally, Pyramid Lake has been shut down to the public, with street closures implemented south of Ralphs Ranch Road at Quail Lake Road to ensure public safety.

Amid the chaos, two commercial properties have fallen victim to the flames, while two others remain under imminent threat, as reported by the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The fire’s relentless advance has pushed it southeast towards Lake Pyramid and into Hungry Valley Park, setting off alarm bells for firefighters and residents alike.

Joint efforts are underway, with the USDA Forest Service taking the helm in unified command alongside Angeles National Forest, the Los Angeles County Fire Department, and the Ventura County Fire Department. Further support is being provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, California State Park Services, and the California Highway Patrol, pooling resources to combat the raging inferno.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a wildfire smoke advisory for the Santa Clarita and Castaic regions, anticipating the southeasterly drift of smoke from the fire towards Santa Clarita, the San Fernando Valley, and sections of the Angeles National Forest. As the situation escalates, a National Weather Service wind advisory has been put in place, highlighting the imminent threat posed by gusts reaching up to 65 mph at higher elevations during the night.

Originating around 1:45 p.m. on Saturday at the junction of Ralph’s Ranch and Gorman School roads near the Golden State Freeway, the Post Fire rapidly ballooned in size from a 500-acre inferno to a behemoth spanning 12,265 acres. Investigations into the cause of the fire are still underway, with initial reports linking the ignition to a McDonald’s parking lot and neighboring auto body shop, where vehicles were caught in the blaze.

On a parallel front, firefighters in Los Angeles County grappled with a smaller brush fire erupting around 12:30 p.m. on Saturday at Sierra Highway and Jonnie Drive in Agua Dulce. Swift containment efforts averted further escalation, with Sierra Highway reopening as the threat subsided.

The SCAQMD issued a precautionary advisory urging residents to limit outdoor exposure, close windows and doors, avoid strenuous physical activity, and run air purifiers or air conditioners to mitigate the smoke’s impact. Furthermore, refraining from using wood-burning sources and equipping oneself with a properly fitted N95 mask or P100 respirator outdoors are advised for those in affected areas.

With the Post Fire still raging and the situation remaining fluid, residents are urged to stay vigilant, heeding evacuation orders promptly if issued. The herculean efforts of firefighting teams are ongoing as they battle the elements to contain the inferno and safeguard communities under threat.