Authorities have issued evacuation orders as a wildfire rapidly spread near a major highway in Los Angeles County, threatening nearby structures, officials reported Saturday. Dubbed the Post Fire, the blaze ignited on June 15 near Interstate 5 in Gorman, California, and has since ballooned to over 3,600 acres (5.6 square miles or 14.5 square kilometres), according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire). The fire began around 1:45 p.m. local time.
Over 250 firefighters are currently engaged in battling the flames. Mandatory evacuations have been ordered for residents in the Hungry Valley and Pyramid Lake areas. Additionally, I-5 has been closed at Quail Lake and Gorman Post Road due to the fire’s proximity and ongoing firefighting efforts.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department has not yet provided details on potential injuries or the extent of damage caused by the fire. Investigations into the blaze are underway.
Authorities warn of potential power outages and traffic disruptions due to smoke and ash fallout, with additional road closures and evacuations expected as the wildfire continues to develop.
