Hughes Fire Engulfs Castaic: A Growing Wildfire Threatens Lives and Property

The Hughes Fire, a rapidly spreading wildfire, has ignited near Castaic Lake in Los Angeles County. The fire, which started on January 22, 2025, is currently under investigation and has already burned over 5,000 acres. Firefighters from various agencies, including the Angeles National Forest and LA County Fire, are working together to contain the blaze. Evacuation orders have been issued for several areas, and road closures are in effect. The situation remains critical, with forecasts indicating low humidity and Santa Ana winds increasing the risk of further spread.

The Hughes Fire: A Growing Threat in Castaic
The Hughes Fire, a devastating wildfire that began on January 22, 2025, has left the community of Castaic in Los Angeles County on high alert. The fire, located off Lake Hughes Road near Castaic Reservoir Road, has rapidly spread to over 5,000 acres, posing a significant threat to lives and property.

Incident Details

Start Date/Time: January 22, 2025, at 10:53 AM
Location: Lake Hughes Road near Castaic Lake
Incident Status: Active
Cause: Under Investigation
Unified Command: Angeles National Forest and LA County Fire

Firefighting Efforts

Firefighters from the Angeles National Forest, CAL FIRE, and local, state, federal, and tribal partners are working tirelessly to contain the blaze. The unified command structure ensures a coordinated response, with assistance from the U.S. Forest Service, Los Angeles County Fire Department, LA County Sheriff, and California Highway Patrol.

Evacuation Orders

Immediate evacuation orders have been issued for several areas, including CAS-INDUSTRY, CAS-LIVEOAK, CAS-OAKCANYON, and others. Residents are advised to sign up for LA County Emergency Alerts for updates. Evacuation shelters have been set up at Valencia High School and other locations.

Road Closures

Several roads are closed due to the fire, including Ridge Route Rd at Lake Hughes, Ridge Route Rd at Templin Hwy, and Lake Hughes at Pine Cyn. The I-5 Northbound lanes are also closed just north of State Route 126.

Current Situation

The fire is characterized by a rapid rate of spread and spotting, with vegetation fire reported near Castaic Lake. Forecasters have issued a Red Flag Warning for the area due to extremely low humidity and Santa Ana winds, increasing the risk of further spread.

Community Response

The community is coming together to support those affected by the fire. Local schools have been evacuated, with students relocated to safe areas. The situation remains critical, and residents are urged to stay informed through official updates.

1. What is the current size of the Hughes Fire?
   The fire has burned over 5,000 acres as of January 22, 2025.
2. Where is the Hughes Fire located?
   The fire is located off Lake Hughes Road near Castaic Lake in Los Angeles County.

3. What is the cause of the Hughes Fire?
   The cause of the fire is under investigation.

4. Who is leading the firefighting efforts?
   The fire is under unified command with the Angeles National Forest and LA County Fire.

5. Have there been any evacuation orders issued?
   Yes, immediate evacuation orders have been issued for several areas, including CAS-INDUSTRY, CAS-LIVEOAK, and others.

6. Where can residents go for evacuation shelters?
   Evacuation shelters have been set up at Valencia High School and other locations.

7. Which roads are closed due to the fire?
   Several roads are closed, including Ridge Route Rd at Lake Hughes, Ridge Route Rd at Templin Hwy, and Lake Hughes at Pine Cyn.

8. What is the current situation with the fire?
   The fire is characterized by a rapid rate of spread and spotting, with vegetation fire reported near Castaic Lake.

9. Have there been any reports of civilian or firefighter injuries?
   There have been no reports of civilian or firefighter injuries as of the latest update.

10. What is the forecast for the fire?
    Forecasters have issued a Red Flag Warning for the area due to extremely low humidity and Santa Ana winds, increasing the risk of further spread.

The Hughes Fire, a rapidly spreading wildfire in Castaic, Los Angeles County, poses a significant threat to lives and property. With over 5,000 acres burned and multiple evacuation orders issued, the situation remains critical. Firefighters from various agencies are working together to contain the blaze, but the forecast indicates challenging conditions ahead. Residents are advised to stay informed and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety.