US: Wildfires prompt evacuation of hundreds in Los Angeles (California) August 15 /update 2

Event

Lake Fire, which broke out on Wednesday, August 12, in brush-covered mountains north of Los Angeles (California) has prompted authorities to issue mandatory evacuation orders for hundreds of homes as of Saturday, August 15. The wildfires have grown to 17,000 acres (6880 hectares) and burned at least 21 structures, including 5 homes. Some downtown Los Angeles residents have been told to prepare for potential evacuation orders over the weekend as the fires threatened 5420 homes and other structures in communities about 65km (40 mi) north of the city. Wildfires also threatened parts of Antelope Valley and authorities issued further evacuation orders on Friday, August 14, for the western Antelope Valley.

As of Friday evening, the Lake Fire around Los Angeles was only 12 percent contained. The cause of the wildfires has not been confirmed as of Saturday; however, authorities believe it was caused by human activity.

Further spread of the fire is possible in the near term. An emergency response presence and localized transportation disruptions, namely road closures, should be anticipated in the affected areas.

Advice

Those in the vicinity of the fires are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.