Hughes fire forces school closures in Los Angeles as blaze intensifies

The Hughes Fire in North Los Angeles has rapidly engulfed over 10,000 acres since it ignited on Wednesday, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). The escalating blaze has prompted the closure of several schools across the region and displaced thousands of families.

Impact on Families and Communities

School closures have added another layer of hardship for parents who must now juggle work responsibilities while securing childcare. These unexpected disruptions can lead to increased stress, financial strain, and logistical challenges. As the fire continues to spread, officials warn that more closures could follow in the coming days.

Schools Affected

Many schools in the hardest-hit areas have shut their doors as a precaution. These closures include:

Castaic Union School District: All schools

William S. Hart Union High School District:

Castaic High School

Valencia High School

Rio Norte Junior High School

Academy of the Canyons

Saugus Union Elementary School District:

West Creek Academy

Tesoro del Valle Elementary

Mountainview Elementary

District offices

College of the Canyons: Valencia and Canyon Country campuses

While the Los Angeles Unified School District remains open, outdoor activities have been moved indoors to shield students from the hazardous air quality caused by the fire.

Fire Conditions and Challenges

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued red flag warnings for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, citing dry conditions and powerful winds that heighten the risk of the fire spreading. Ariel Cohen, a meteorologist with the NWS, described the situation as "critical," noting that wind gusts could reach 60 miles per hour, fueling the fire's rapid expansion.

As of Thursday morning, CAL FIRE reported that the Hughes Fire was only 14 percent contained. Firefighters are working tirelessly to curb the flames amid challenging conditions.

Government Response

California Governor Gavin Newsom assured residents via social media that state resources have been deployed to assist federal efforts in battling the fire. “We will continue to monitor the situation and provide the federal government with whatever it needs to extinguish this fire,” he stated.

The Hughes Fire remains a major threat as containment efforts continue. The red flag warnings are in effect until Friday, with officials urging residents in affected areas to stay alert, prepare for potential evacuations, and prioritize safety.