Wind-Driven Wildfire Near Castaic Lake Prompts Evacuations in LA County

CASTAIC, Calif. — Firefighters battled a wind-driven wildfire near Castaic Lake on Wednesday, prompting evacuations as flames spread rapidly through dry brush in northern Los Angeles County. The Hughes Fire, reported around 10:30 a.m., burned approximately 50 acres near Lake Hughes Road and the northbound 5 Freeway.

Thick smoke from the blaze was visible from the freeway and surrounding areas, though officials said there was no immediate threat to structures. The fire is burning about 16 miles from the nearest home, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Angeles National Forest crews.

“There is a rapid rate of spread,” officials said, citing heavy fuels and spotting across Lake Hughes and Castaic roads. Winds in the area were gusting between 10 mph and 20 mph Wednesday morning, with stronger gusts expected in the afternoon and evening.

The Hughes Fire erupted as firefighters increased containment around two other major wildfires in Los Angeles County. The Eaton Fire, northeast of Los Angeles, has burned 14,000 acres and is 91% contained. The Palisades Fire, along the LA County coast, spans 23,400 acres and is 68% contained. Both fires, which started during a Jan. 7 Santa Ana windstorm, have claimed 28 lives and destroyed thousands of structures.

Details about the cause of the Hughes Fire were not immediately available. A red flag warning remains in effect for the region due to ongoing Santa Ana winds, which have fueled the rapid spread of recent wildfires.

This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.