California Wildfires

Route Fire Burns Nearly 400 Acres Near 5 Freeway in Castaic

The 5 Freeway was closed in both directions Saturday evening.

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Firefighters are battling a brush fire that grew to nearly 400 acres after starting Saturday near the 5 Freeway north of Castaic.

Two firefighters suffered burn injuries. Details about their conditions were not immediately available, but both were transported for treatment.

The fire grew to nearly 400 acres by 6:30 p.m. The 5 Freeway was temporarily closed in both directions at State Route 138 and Templin Highway.

At about 8 p.m., firefighters said an aggressive aerial and ground attack was slowing the fire. Helicopters continued drops on the flames overnight.

Details about how the fire started were not immediately available.

Southern California has endured several days of hot weather conditions, prompting authorities to close Angeles National Forest through Sept. 17. The region has largely been spared the devastating wildfires that have plagued Northern California this summer, including the monster Dixie Fire .

California has already surpassed the acreage burned at this point last year, which ended up setting the record. Now it’s entering a period when powerful winds have often driven the deadliest blazes.

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