Angeles National Forest Fire
The Sylmar fire is raging 20 miles north of Los Angeles in the Angeles National Forest. Within three hours of the fire being reported, it spread to cover over 1,500 acres and has endangered more than 1,000 homes.1 Just a few hours later, the flames spread to over 2,500 acres as 60-mph winds helped the fire spread, hopping over the Interstate 210 and 5 freeways. More than 10,000 residents are under mandatory evacuation. Many houses and mobile homes have been damaged, but official numbers have not yet been released.2 As of midday Sunday, November 16, the fire was 30-35% contained, and moving away from residential areas toward Angeles National Forest.3
Fast Facts
- Fire started November 14, 2008
- As of early November 16, the fire is 30% contained3
- Fire covers 9,500 acres3
- 10,000 residents evacuated2
- Major road closures: Interstate 5, 210 and 4052
- Number of damages houses has not yet been released2
- Authorities suggest fire could be a case of arson4
October 12 Fire
Arson is suspected in the Angeles National Forest wildfire burning northeast of Los Angeles, California.5 The fire began at approximately 2 a.m. on October 12, 2008, near a shooting range in Little Tujunga Canyon. The blaze quickly scorched several hundred acres, forcing more than a thousand people from their homes.6
On Tuesday, October 14, 2008, the fire had burned over 5,300 acres, but was considered to be 70 percent contained. The fire was the first in a series of fires aggravated by the Santa Ana Winds from October 13 to October 15, 2008. In total, the fires have burned over 10,000 acres and claimed at least two lives.1
The cause of the fire is under investigation. Investigators said they found something "suspicious" near the point where the fire ignited but gave no further details.5
Related Pages on Mahalo
Marek Wildfires | Napa Valley Wildfire | California Fires | California Wildfires June 2008 | Los Angeles | California | Malibu Fire | Sierra Madre Wildfire | Canyon Country Fire | San Diego Fire | Sesnon Fire | Santa Ana Winds | Fontana Wildfire | Sepulveda Pass Fire | Santa Barbara Fire | Tea Fire | Montecito Fire | Sylmar Fire
Categories