A large brush fire broke out Saturday in Gorman in northern Los Angeles County, burning at least 500 acres and prompting an evacuation order.
The fire was reported at about 1:45 p.m. at Ralph’s Ranch and Gorman School roads near the Golden State (5) Freeway, Los Angeles County Fire Department spokesman Chris Little told City News Service.
It was expected to grow to 1,000 acre within the hour.
The blaze was threatening structures and evacuations were ordered, although Little said the numbers were not immediately available.
County firefighters were also battling a smaller brush fire that started at about 12:30 p.m. at Sierra Highway and Johnnie Drive in Agua Dulce, he said.
Resources are being sent to both fires, Little said.
The Los Angeles Fire Department also sent one of its helicopters to aid the county fire department, according to spokesman Brian Humphrey.
Saturday’s high temperatures in Gorman was 80 degrees, according to the National Weather Service, but strong winds were forecast for the northern part of the county. Gusts of 45 mph were expected Saturday in the Santa Clarita Valley.