Firefighters increased containment of the Hughes Fire near Castaic Lake to 87% Saturday as evacuation orders were lifted, while preparing for an expected shift in the winds and the likelihood of rain this weekend that has prompted a flood watch.
Evacuation orders were lifted as of Saturday, according to Cal Fire, but some areas remained under an evacuation warning.
“Firefighters continued to improve and add control lines overnight, bringing containment to 87% and keeping the fire within its current perimeter. On the northern flank, crews patrolled rugged terrain for hot spots and will continue mop-up activities today,” Cal Fire said.
“With yesterday’s evacuation orders lifted and residents returning to their homes, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department exited unified command. Additionally, the Red Cross closed their evacuation center for this fire, due to the rapid rate of containment and repopulation. We will begin releasing firefighters and resources to make them available for future incidents, should they be needed.”
With rain expected Saturday, Sunday and Monday, the National Weather Service issued a flood watch from Sunday afternoon to Monday afternoon for the Eaton, Palisades, Franklin, Bridge, and Hughes burn scars.
“Flash flooding and debris flows caused by excessive rainfall are possible in and near the burn scars,” the NWS said. ” …Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.”
Cooler temperatures and higher humidity Saturday night were expected to aid in extinguishing hot spots. Crews will be on alert for localized flooding and debris flows over the weekend.
The fire has burned 10,425 acres since it started at about 11 a.m. Wednesday in a remote area east of the lake, according to Cal Fire. Aided by gusting Santa Ana winds and thick, dry vegetation, the fire exploded over thousands of acres, reaching 9,450 acres as of early Wednesday evening. An aggressive aerial attack on the fire dramatically slowed the spread by nightfall.
Sheriff’s officials urged residents returning to their homes to do so with caution, noting continued poor air quality to due ash and smoke, and the dangers of fire debris. Residents were urged to wear N-95 masks, limit outdoor activities and keep their windows and doors closed.
A temporary evacuation center for people displaced by the fire remained open at College of the Canyons East Gym, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road.
Residents seeking sandbags for protection against possible debris flow were asked to visit the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works website at dpw.lacounty.gov/dsg/sandbags/.
It was still unclear what sparked the fire.