Los Angeles County is under a red flag warning, signaling extreme fire risk due to strong winds and dry, low-humidity conditions. Winds of 20-30 mph are expected to intensify, potentially fueling the fire and complicating aerial firefighting efforts.
Over 31,000 residents are under mandatory evacuation orders, with another 23,000 warned to prepare. Nearly 500 inmates from a local jail are also being evacuated, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna.
Despite the fire’s growth, Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone expressed cautious optimism, stating crews are making progress. “The situation remains dynamic, but we are gaining the upper hand,” he said.
Ed Fletcher from Cal Fire noted that the current blaze differs from earlier fires this month, with slightly less intense winds and extensive firefighting resources deployed. Crews remain vigilant as conditions evolve.