A fast-moving brush fire, now being called the Canyon Fire, has spread to nearly 5,000 acres in the hills outside Los Angeles, forcing evacuation orders for thousands of residents. Authorities say strong winds and dry conditions have fueled the fire’s rapid growth since it first broke out yesterday afternoon.

Firefighters from multiple agencies are on the scene, working to contain the flames before they threaten more homes and critical infrastructure. Helicopters and air tankers have been deployed to drop water and fire retardant, but officials warn that shifting winds could make containment efforts challenging.

Evacuation centers have been set up at local schools and community facilities, and residents in nearby neighborhoods have been urged to prepare to leave at short notice. Law enforcement is also assisting with road closures to keep evacuation routes clear.

So far, no fatalities have been reported, though several structures are believed to have been damaged. Emergency services are prioritizing life safety, while damage assessment teams will be deployed once conditions allow.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, though officials note that the area has been under high fire risk warnings due to ongoing drought and hot weather.

Local leaders are urging residents to follow evacuation orders and avoid returning to the affected areas until authorities declare it safe. With temperatures expected to remain high in the coming days, fire crews are preparing for what could be a prolonged battle to bring the Canyon Fire under control.