5 months ago
23
NEW DELHI: Authorities issued
evacuation orders
on Saturday as a wildfire in Los Angeles County spread rapidly. The fire has consumed thousands of acres near a major highway and threatens nearby structures.
The
Post Fire
has burned over 3,600 acres, roughly 5.6 square miles, near
Interstate 5 freeway
in
Gorman
. This town is located about 62 miles northwest of Los Angeles, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
The flames broke out around 1:45 pm, with authorities promptly notifying the public.
Evacuations are currently in place near
Pyramid Lake
, Gorman Post Road, the Hungry Valley SVRA recreation area, and surrounding communities in the
Grapevine area
. The 5 Freeway has been closed in both directions at Quail Lake and Gorman Post Road.
Initially, the fire was reported on the side of the southbound lanes of the 5 Freeway. It later spread from a hillside to a nearby auto repair shop, destroying the building and numerous parked cars in the lot.
Additionally, the 5 Freeway has been closed in both directions at Quail Lake and Gorman Post Road.
“It started as a brush fire,” said D C Williams with the California Highway Patrol. “It jumped the road, unfortunately taking out the auto shop and some cars in the parking lot. Fortunately, it missed a school. The wind is blowing extremely strong, which isn’t helping things. Unfortunately, it is still growing.”
Helicopters and aircraft from several fire departments have responded, dropping water and flame retardants on the growing flames.
It's unclear how the fire started or if any containment has been achieved. Authorities confirm that no additional structures are currently threatened as crews work to battle the blaze.
