Fire in Castaic: Schools and Communities Evacuated

A wildfire, named the Hughes Fire, started near Castaic Lake on Wednesday. It quickly spread, burning over 5, 000 acres and forcing the closure of numerous roads. Castaic High School, along with several other local schools, were evacuated. Students were either picked up by their parents or moved to West Ranch High School. The Pitchess Detention Center also evacuated around 476 people to another facility. Wind advisories and red flag warnings were issued due to high winds and dry conditions.No structures were reported destroyed, and no injuries or deaths were reported. Evacuation orders and warnings were put in place for various areas in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Several animal care centers were set up to handle pets and livestock. Road closures were announced, including the northbound lanes of the 5 Freeway north of State Route 126.