A fast-moving brush fire in the Angeles National Forest northeast of Santa Clarita exploded in size Saturday, growing from an initial 20 acres to 1,000 acres in just a few hours. Cal Fire identified the blaze as the Bouquet Fire and said it started shortly before 3:20 p.m. near Bouquet Canyon Road and Quarry Road.
As the fire spread through dry brush and rugged terrain, officials said it threatened nearby homes and major power transmission lines. Cal Fire issued mandatory evacuation orders for the area, warning residents of an immediate threat to life and telling them to leave at once. The affected evacuation zones can be checked through Cal Fire’s official updates.
The California Highway Patrol closed Bouquet Canyon Road at Vasquez Canyon Road, and drivers were told to use alternate routes. Fire crews on the ground and in the air were battling the blaze as additional resources were sent to the scene.
The National Weather Service said winds in the area were expected to remain light to moderate Saturday evening, with higher gusts possible. Officials warned that conditions could still allow the fire to spread overnight.
