Topline
A fast-growing wildfire in Southern California triggered multiple evacuation orders in Los Angeles and Ventura counties on Thursday, as officials warned that the extreme heat wave gripping the region could cause the blaze to expand further.
Firefighters battle flames from the Canyon Fire in Castaic, California.
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Key Facts
The Canyon Fire broke on Thursday afternoon near the town of Piru in Ventura County, California and the cause of the blaze is still under investigation.
The fire has rapidly grown from around 30 acres when first reported to 4,856 acres as of late Thursday night, with 0% containment, according to Cal Fire.
The growing blaze has triggered evacuation orders in six zones across Los Angeles County—including the neighborhoods of Val Verde, Hasley Canyon and Castaic—while eight other zones were under evacuation warnings.
In Ventura County, evacuation orders are in effect across four areas, including the Lake Piru Recreation Area, East of Piru Canyon Road, East of the Community of Piru and East of Center Street / Highway 126.
Crucial Quote
Earlier on Thursday, after the fire broke out, LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger wrote on X: “The Canyon Fire is spreading fast under extreme heat & dry conditions near Ventura–LA County line. If you’re in Santa Clarita, Hasley Canyon, or Val Verde, take evacuation orders seriously — when first responders say GO, leave immediately. Keep aware—please don’t risk lives.”
Tangent
The Canyon Fire one of several large wildfires burning through California right now. The largest of these is the Gifford Fire which has burnt through 99,232 acres across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, and is only 15% contained.
Firefighters battle flames from the Canyon Fire in Castaic, California.
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A resident walks along Hasley Canyon Road as the Canyon Fire burns on Thursday.
Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
The Canyon Fire burns on Thursday in Hasley Canyon.
Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
A resident rides a golf cart as he exits his property while the Canyon Fire burns on.
Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
Further Reading
Fast-moving Canyon fire burns nearly 5,000 acres, spurs evacuations in Ventura and L.A. counties (Los Angeles Times)