A new, fast-moving wildfire has broken out in Los Angeles County, causing tens of thousands of people to evacuate an area already dealing with the most destructive fires in its history.
The Hughes fire started 45 miles northwest of Los Angeles near Castaic Lake on Wednesday morning. It quickly grew to over 10,000 acres due to strong winds and dry brush.
Fortunately, no homes or businesses have been damaged, and officials are optimistic about controlling it. This fire is located north of two large fires that have destroyed neighborhoods this month.
Residents near the Hughes fire were seen hosing down their homes and gardens with water and evacuating. The region is under a red flag warning due to high fire risk from strong winds and dry conditions.
Scientists say climate change has made the grasses and shrubs in the area more susceptible to burning. Around 31,000 people have been ordered to evacuate, and another 23,000 have been warned they may need to leave. The fire is currently 14% contained, and officials are working hard to contain it.