Multiple brush fires broke out across Southern California over Father’s Day weekend, and firefighters on Monday continued to battle the largest of them amid warm temperatures and strong winds.
The Post Fire
The Post Fire started Saturday afternoon at Ralph’s Ranch and Gorman School roads near the 5 Freeway in the Gorman area of northern Los Angeles County. Initially just a few hundred acres, the fire rapidly expanded due to gusting winds. By Monday morning, it had grown to 14,625 acres with only 8% containment, according to CAL FIRE.
Firefighting Efforts
Firefighters worked overnight to reinforce lines of cleared vegetation. The unified command, which includes the U.S. Forest Service, Angeles National Forest, Los Angeles County Fire Department, and Ventura County Fire Department, is overseeing the efforts. Support is also being provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, California State Park Services, Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management, CAL FIRE, and the California Highway Patrol.
The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for the I-5 corridor in L.A. County mountains until 5 p.m. Monday due to strong northwest-north winds and low humidity. Wind gusts of 45 to 55 mph were forecast, increasing to 60 to 70 mph overnight into Monday morning, with the strongest gusts across ridge tops. A high wind warning is in place until 3 a.m. Tuesday.
“One of the key factors that we have that are playing into the severity of this fire is the heavy winds situation, along with the dry fuel, high heat, and topography,” said Craig Little with the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
Impact and Damage
The fire has destroyed one commercial property, threatened 10 others, and endangered 50 single-family residences. Three injuries were reported—two adults and a child—who were taken to a hospital with minor injuries. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Evacuations and Warnings
The Post Fire has prompted the evacuation of approximately 1,200 people from the Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area. The wind has pushed the flames south toward Pyramid Lake, which is now closed. Street closures are in effect south of Ralphs Ranch Road at Quail Lake Road. Additionally, evacuation warnings were issued for areas south of Pyramid Lake between Old Ridge Route and the L.A. County line, including Paradise Ranch Estates.
“We have 1,200 people evacuated, and no plans for any other evacuations at the moment,” said Little. “But this is a dynamic situation.”
He advised residents to be prepared for evacuations: “Just be ready as far as evacuations are concerned. Have all of your important items ready to go at a moment’s notice.”
Other Fires in the Region
Hesperia Fire
A smaller fire continues to burn in the Hesperia area of San Bernardino County. Reported just after 6 p.m. Saturday near the 1800 block of Highway 173, the fire has grown from 300 acres to 1,131 and is 20% contained. An evacuation warning is in place for homes in the Arrowhead Equestrian Estates area.
Lancaster Fire
In Lancaster, a fire expanded to the edge of residential neighborhoods, apparently burning some structures. The Max Fire broke out Sunday afternoon near 80th Street West and Avenue K. Crews were able to control the blaze before it spread further. Reports from different agencies estimated different acreage numbers, with CAL FIRE reporting approximately 338 acres burned.
Stay Informed
Residents are urged to stay informed about the latest developments and adhere to evacuation warnings and safety recommendations from local authorities.