Last updated: Tuesday, June 18, 2024 1:14AM GMT
A large brush fire in the Gorman area continued to grow Monday as strong winds whipped the region. The Post Fire has burned 15,610 acres and is 8% contained.
Several wildfires broke out in Southern California over Father’s Day weekend, and firefighters continue to battle the largest of them, the Post Fire, amid warm temperatures and strong winds.
A wildfire smoke advisory is in effect for the Santa Clarita and Castaic areas.
Smoke from the Post Fire in Gorman is moving southeast toward the San Fernando Valley and parts of the Angeles National Forest.
The AQMD is warning people in the Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valley areas to stay indoors as harmful smoke from the fire in Gorman drifts southward.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District expects air quality index levels to reach unhealthy levels. Those closest to fire and smoke are urged to limit their exposure by staying indoors with windows and doors closed.
Jun 17, 2024, 6:03 PM GMT
As of Monday morning, the Post Fire continues to burn in the hills. Video shows firefighters battling flames and charred vehicles burning over the weekend.
The fire broke out around 1:45 pm on Saturday on Ralph’s Ranch and Gorman School roads, near the 5 Freeway, in the Gorman area of northern Los Angeles County.
The flames burned 15,610 acres Monday morning with only 8% containment.
A spokesman for the Los Angeles County fire department said there were three injuries: two adults and a child. A firefighter also suffered minor injuries.
Jun 17, 2024, 4:12 PM GMT
The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for the 5 Freeway corridor in the mountains of Los Angeles and Ventura County due to high winds in the area.
It was extended until 6 pm on Tuesday due to strong northeasterly winds and low humidity. A high wind warning is also in effect until 3 a.m. Tuesday.
Forecasters said winds of 45 to 55 mph were expected, with even stronger gusts.
Hot, dry conditions increase the chance of wildfires spreading quickly and small grass fires becoming large wildfires.
Jun 16, 2024, 1:00 AM GMT
The Post Fire threatened nearby structures and prompted the evacuation of about 1,200 people from the Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area. The wind continued to push the flames south toward Pyramid Lake, which was also closed, and road closures were in place 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 Los Angeles County line, including Paradise Ranch Estates.
“We have 1,200 people evacuated, and there are no plans for any further evacuations at this time,” Little said. “But this is a dynamic situation.”
“Just be prepared for evacuations. Have all your important items ready to go at a moment’s notice.”
