Major Wildfire Rages in Sylmar, Forcing Emergency Evacuations
Blaze Spreads Across 500 Acres in Angeles National Forest
A fast-moving, wind-driven wildfire burned more than 100 acres late Tuesday night in Sylmar, California, growing to 500 acres early Wednesday and forcing emergency evacuations in several neighborhoods.
Fire Breaks Out Near Diamond Road
The Hurst fire was reported shortly before 10:30 p.m. near Diamond Road, according to Cal Fire. Within 15 minutes, the blaze exploded to over 100 acres, jumped the 210 Freeway, and began to spread in the Angeles National Forest.
Fire Rages Along Saddle Ridge Fire Footprint
The fire continued to spread in the Angeles National Forest, utilizing the footprint of the Saddle Ridge Fire that burned 8,799 acres in October 2019, according to Watch Duty, a website that tracks firefighting efforts in real time.
Residents Ordered to Evacuate
The Los Angeles Emergency Management Department ordered people in the area north of the 210 Freeway from Roxford Street to the 5 Freeway/14 Freeway split to immediately evacuate.
Cars Attempt to Flee the Area
Numerous posts on X (formerly known as Twitter) showed drivers attempting to escape the Hurst Fire.
Barry J. Nidorf Juvenile Hall Remains Operational
The blaze was reportedly within two miles of the Barry J. Nidorf Juvenile Hall, which houses about 50 youth. However, there were no immediate plans to evacuate the facility, according to a phone call with an individual.
Third Major Fire in Los Angeles County
The rapidly spreading blaze marked the third major fire in Los Angeles County on Tuesday, fanned by high winds and dry vegetation.
Conclusion
The Hurst fire was one of three major wildfires in Los Angeles County on Tuesday, causing widespread concern and disruption in the region.
FAQs
Q: What is the current size of the Hurst fire?
A: The Hurst fire has burned over 500 acres as of early Wednesday morning.
Q: How did the fire start?
A: The fire started near Diamond Road in Sylmar, California, around 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday night.
Q: Are there any evacuation orders in place?
A: Yes, the Los Angeles Emergency Management Department has ordered people in the area north of the 210 Freeway from Roxford Street to the 5 Freeway/14 Freeway split to evacuate immediately.
Q: Is there any damage reported?
A: There are no reports of major damage or structural losses at this time. However, the blaze is still raging and the situation is being monitored closely.
