Rapidly spreading Hughes Fire puts 54 000 under evacuation orders or warnings as investigators probe possible human cause, California
Rapidly spreading Hughes Fire erupted on January 22, 2025, near Castaic Lake in northern Los Angeles County, tearing through more than 4 047 ha (10 000 acres) in just hours and triggering evacuation orders or warnings for over 54 000 residents. With no lightning strikes reported, investigators are expected to focus on potential human-related causes. Adding to concerns, unconfirmed reports suggest two individuals were spotted near the fire’s point of origin, though authorities have not yet addressed whether arson is suspected.
Hughes Fire explodes in size sending a massive column of smoke in the air. Image credit: Angeles National Forest
- The Hughes Fire near Castaic Lake in northern Los Angeles County burned over 4 047 ha (10 000 acres) and was 14% contained by the evening of January 22.
- More than 54 000 residents were under evacuation orders or warnings due to the rapid spread of the fire, which at one point consumed 12 ha (30 acres) per minute.
The Hughes Fire broke out on Wednesday morning (LT), January 22, near Castaic Lake in northern Los Angeles County. By the end of the day, it had scorched over 4 047 ha (10 000 acres) and was just 14% contained.
More than 54 000 residents were under evacuation orders or warnings, with rapidly spreading fire consuming approximately 12 ha (30 acres) every minute at one point.
Several major roads connecting the Bakersfield area to the Los Angeles metro were temporarily shut down, including Interstate 5 through the “Grapevine.”
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said more than 31 000 people have been ordered to evacuate from the Hughes Fire, and another 23 000 were placed under evacuation warnings.
Humidity values were reported to be less than 10%, with winds estimated to be 48 – 80 km/h (30 – 50 mph) in the fire zone, contributing to the fire’s erratic behavior.
Weather conditions remained within acceptable ranges, allowing firefighters to deploy both ground and air units to combat the blaze, unlike during the deadly wildfires of January 7.
Hurricane-force winds had grounded many aircraft during the historic January 7 wildfires, which allowed those fires to grow rapidly out of control.
Firefighting efforts currently involve more than 4 000 personnel, supported by aircraft deploying fire retardants.
Despite challenging conditions, including gusty winds up to 67 km/h (42 mph), no structures have been reported damaged, and there are no reported fatalities or injuries. However, there are concerns that the fire could spread into eastern portions of Ventura County, where evacuation notices were also in effect
Large air tankers were deployed in the evening, as fire activity was considered less intense compared to the afternoon.
Firefighters have not yet identified the cause of the blaze. However, with no lightning strikes reported in the area, investigators are expected to explore potential human-related causes.
Additionally, there are unconfirmed reports of two individuals seen near the fire’s point of origin. Authorities have not yet commented on whether arson is being considered.
Another brush fire, the Bernado Fire, erupted near San Diego and Interstate 15 on Wednesday morning, sending one person to the hospital with burn injuries.
Evacuation orders were in effect for several hours. However, 175 firefighters gained control of the blaze, containing it to 2.8 ha (7 acres).
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Red Flag Warning for most of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, including the area affected by the Hughes Fire. The warning remains in effect until 20:00 PST on January 23 due to strong winds and low humidity.
The Red Flag Warning indicates critical fire weather conditions, with northeast winds expected to reach 32 to 48 km/h (20 to 30 mph), with gusts up to 80 km/h (50 mph). In higher terrain, isolated gusts of 80 to 97 km/h (50 to 60 mph) are possible. Relative humidity levels are expected to drop to 5 to 10 percent.
Residents in affected areas are advised to exercise extreme caution with any activity that could spark a wildfire and remain prepared for possible evacuation.
References:
1 Hughes Fire Incident Update – Calfire – January 22, 2025
2 Largest wildfire since deadly Los Angeles firestorm breaks out north of city – Fox Weather – January 22, 2025
Rishav is a skilled researcher specializing in extreme and severe weather reporting. He combines exceptional research capabilities with scientific precision to deliver clear, data-driven articles. Known for uncovering critical information, Rishav ensures his work is accurate, insightful, and impactful. His passion for both science and literature fuels his dedication to producing high-quality news articles. You can reach him at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
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There are other witnesses who’ve said they saw humans lighting the fires. Not just this one.
Could have also just been a lit cigarette butt. The static electricity these days, due to low humidity, is insane. Could also be a super electric charged human. A lone touch is all it would take. Ya’ never know.