Sylmar Fire Forces Evacuations as Blaze Spreads Rapidly

A wind-swept brush fire erupted in Sylmar, California, on Tuesday night, January 7, 2025, prompting immediate evacuation orders for residents north of Interstate 210. The fire, which began near Yarnell Street close to Olive View Medical Center, quickly grew to approximately 100 acres, jumping the freeway and spreading rapidly toward the Interstate 5 and State Route 14 split in the Newhall Pass.

The Los Angeles Fire Department reported the fire at around 10:15 p.m., with crews on scene estimating the blaze had consumed 50 acres within minutes. Evacuations were ordered for areas north of the 210 Freeway from Roxford Street to the 5 and 14 freeway split. Officials have not provided a timeline for when residents can return to their homes.

According to the nonprofit Watch Duty app, the fire, dubbed the Hurst Fire, was moving quickly toward the freeway interchange. The Angeles National Forest confirmed on social media that the fire had grown to approximately 100 acres and was spreading rapidly. “Fire is approx. 100 acres and has jumped the freeway,” the ANF account posted on X.

This marks the third major fire in Los Angeles County in recent days, following the Palisades and Eaton fires. The Palisades fire devastated parts of Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Brentwood, and Santa Monica, while the Eaton fire forced evacuations in Pasadena and Altadena. Firefighters are battling strong winds and dry conditions, which have exacerbated the spread of the flames.

Residents in the affected areas are urged to follow evacuation orders and monitor updates from local authorities. Additional resources, including air support, have been deployed to contain the fire. This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.