Massive Fire Breaks Out Along 405 Freeway, Threatens Bel-Air Homes

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

A fast-moving wildfire broke out early Thursday morning in the Sepulveda Pass along the 405 Freeway, spreading into the upscale neighborhood of Bel-Air, California. The fire, reported by the Los Angeles Times, burned uphill toward Sepulveda Fire Road, fueled by dry air and gusty winds of up to 25 mph.

Emergency crews acted swiftly, with multiple fire engines and helicopters combating the blaze. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reported that the fire grew to 20 acres within hours, with 0% containment as of 12:50 a.m.

Evacuation warnings were issued for Bel-Air and Brentwood neighborhoods, including luxury homes along Casiano Road and Moraga Drive. The Hotel Angeleno evacuated 121 guests due to its proximity to the fire.

The Getty Center, located south of the fire, activated fire protection measures. The Moraga Bel Air Vineyards, owned by media mogul Rupert Murdoch, is among the properties under threat, with memories of the 2017 Skirball fire still fresh.

Firefighters have reported progress in containing the blaze but remain cautious as conditions could worsen. This comes amid an already challenging period for Southern California, as the Hughes fire in Castaic forced over 31,000 residents to evacuate.

Stay tuned for updates on evacuation efforts and containment progress.