Firefighters in Whittier, California battled a rapidly spreading blaze near Castaic Lake, leading to mandatory evacuations for 31,000 people. Another brush fire, the Sepulveda Fire, also broke out near Bel-Air, prompting temporary closure of the 405 Freeway. Over 1,100 firefighters were deployed to combat the fires amid ongoing Santa Ana winds and dry conditions in Southern California. The Hughes Fire had burned over 10,000 acres with 14% containment, while the Sepulveda Fire burned 40 acres and was contained. No structures were reported damaged in the Hughes Fire. Evacuation orders were lifted for both fires on Thursday morning. Authorities warned of a “dynamic” situation as red flag warnings were extended through Friday. The Pitchess Detention Center evacuated inmates as a precautionary measure. Fire crews were also making progress on other wildfires in the region. Light to moderate Santa Ana winds were expected to continue into Thursday.
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