A devastating wildfire is burning out of control north of Los Angeles, having already torched 5,000 acres in just hours. The Hughes Fire, as it has been named, has prompted authorities to issue a mandatory evacuation order for nearby communities, including approximately 18,000 people in the town of Castaic.
The fire was first spotted at around 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday, with a huge column of smoke seen in the wilderness near Santa Clarita, California. In response, first responders requested four aircraft and 50 fire engines to combat the blaze.
Wildfire expert Jacob Weigley warned that the fire has the potential to “go nuclear,” citing the recent high winds and dry conditions that have created a perfect storm for the fire to spread rapidly. Weigley, who has been in contact with colleagues near the scene, described the fire as “big” and said that it is already nearly out of control.
The fire has not yet reached urban areas, but the evacuation order has been issued as a precautionary measure. Residents in the affected areas are being advised to follow the instructions of local authorities and to stay away from the fire.