No Reported Growth Overnight in Hughes Fire near Castaic as Crews Prepare for More Tough Weather

Firefighters Hold Back Blaze at 10,176 Acres with 14% Containment

Firefighters held the Hughes fire in check overnight, keeping the blaze at 10,176 acres with 14% containment as crews prepared for another day of critical fire weather, authorities said.

Fire Weather Warning Extended Through Friday

The fire, burning near Castaic in the Antelope Valley, was first reported around 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 22, and exploded in size thanks to strong Santa Ana winds, prompting evacuation orders and warnings and, at one point, a short shutdown of the 5 Freeway.

More Than 4,000 Personnel Assigned to Fire

More than 4,000 personnel were assigned to the fire and about a dozen aircraft were sent up to the Santa Clarita area to help ground crews, authorities said.

No Structures Damaged or Destroyed

No structures have been reported damaged or destroyed as of Thursday morning.

Crews Focus on Extinguishing Hot Spots and Flare-Ups

Crews overnight focused on extinguishing hot spots and flare-ups, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said during Wednesday evening.

Evacuation Orders and Warnings in Place

Mandatory evacuation orders were impacting about 31,000 people as of Wednesday night, officials said, with another 23,000 under evacuation warnings.

Light Rain Possible Over the Weekend

But firefighters could get a reprieve over the weekend, when light rain might arrive.

Nearly 500 Inmates Evacuated

Nearly 500 inmates were evacuated on Wednesday from one of the Pitchess Detention Center campuses in Castaic to a nearby correctional facility, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Cause of Fire Unknown

The cause of the fire was not known yet.

Conclusion

The Hughes fire continues to burn out of control in the Antelope Valley, with firefighters working tirelessly to contain the blaze. As the fire weather warning remains in effect through Friday, residents are advised to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders and warnings.

FAQs

Q: What is the current size of the Hughes fire?
A: The fire is currently at 10,176 acres with 14% containment.

Q: How many personnel are assigned to the fire?
A: More than 4,000 personnel are assigned to the fire.

Q: Have any structures been damaged or destroyed?
A: No structures have been reported damaged or destroyed as of Thursday morning.

Q: What is the cause of the fire?
A: The cause of the fire is not yet known.

Q: When might the fire weather warning be lifted?
A: The fire weather warning is currently extended through Friday, but firefighters may get a reprieve over the weekend when light rain is expected.