Sand, Santa Clarita

Sand, Angeles NF. One mile south of Santa Clarita, CA. Brush, chaparral and tall grass. Minimal fire behavior with backing. Road, area and trail closures in effect.

August 5, 2016 at 7:05 AM

The fire is 98 percent contained at 41,432 acres. Resources include 8 hand crews, 3 helicopters, 10 engines, 4 water tenders, 5 dozers, and 230 total personnel. Firefighters are repairing areas that were affected by fire-suppression efforts. Much of the dozer-line repair is complete on the east side. Yesterday, crews worked on repairing dozer lines along the southern boundary of the Magic Mountain Wilderness. Around the fire’s perimeter, firefighters are patrolling, monitoring, and extinguishing hot spots as needed.

The type 3 incident management organization expects to have completed its work to a degree that it can return responsibility of the fire to the Angeles National Forest on Saturday, August 6. The fire camp at Central Park in Santa Clarita will be dismantled on Saturday.

August 3, 2016 at 9:50 PM

The fire is 98 percent contained at 41,432 acres. A clerical error in a reporting document led to a containment figure of 100 percent being released earlier today. Firefighters continue to address flareups well within the perimeter. Smoldering stumps, hot spots, and burning vegetation in the fire’s interior could generate enough smoke to be seen by the public in the surrounding residences and communities. The interior burning does not pose a threat to the containment lines, and the probability that the fire will grow, spread, or spot outside the existing lines is extremely low. Sufficient resources seven hand crews, three helicopters, ten engines, four water tenders, and four dozers remain assigned to the fire. Those resources are patrolling and monitoring the entire fire perimeter, extinguishing hot spots as needed.

August 3, 2016 at 8:11 AM

A local type 3 organization under Incident Commander Rudy Madrano took responsibility for the fire yesterday morning. A small fire camp for firefighters is at Central Park in Santa Clarita. The fire is 100 percent contained at 41,432 acres. Resources include 250 total personnel, 7 hand crews, 10 engines, 3 helicopters, 4 water tenders, and 4 dozers.

August 2, 2016 at 1:53 PM

A local type 3 organization under Incident Commander Rudy Madrano took responsibility for the fire this morning at 6:00. A small fire camp for firefighters remaining on the incident will be set up at Central Park in Santa Clarita. Southern California Interagency Incident Management Team 3, under the command of Mike Wakoski, and Los Angeles County Fire, under the command of Deputy Chief Vince Pena, thanks cooperators and community members for their support throughout the suppression efforts.

The Sand Fire is 98 percent contained and 41,432 acres. Resources include 557 total personnel, 16 engines, 13 hand crews, 3 helicopters, 6 water tenders, and 5 dozers. The daily update for August 1 was the last published update. Future updates on the fire and suppression repair will be posted here.

August 1, 2016 at 6:53 PM

Southern California Interagency Incident Management Team 3, under the command of Mike Wakoski, and Los Angeles County Fire, under the command of Deputy Chief Vince Pena, would like to thank cooperators and community members for their support throughout the suppression efforts. They will transfer command of and responsibility for the fire to a Type 3 organization tomorrow morning at 6:00. A small incident command post will be set up at Central Park in Santa Clarita.

The Sand Fire is 98 percent contained and 41,432 acres. Resources include 624 total personnel, 16 engines, 16 hand crews, 3 helicopters, 7 water tenders, and 11 dozers. A Type 3 organization will assume command of and responsibility for the fire tomorrow morning at 6:00. Southern California Interagency Incident Management Team 3, under the command of Mike Wakoski, and Los Angeles County Fire, under the command of Deputy Chief Vince Pena, would like to thank cooperators and community members for their support throughout the suppression efforts.

All road closures due to fire activity were lifted. However, Southern California Edison is using helicopters to place power poles in the fire area, resulting in intermittent temporary closures during daylight hours today. Southern California Edison is coordinating with California Highway Patrol and Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department to close roads as needed to accomplish power restoration. The temporary closures required by Southern California Edison will be at the Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road going into Bear Divide and also at Little Tujunga Canyon Road north of the Wildlife Way Station. Call Southern California Edison (800-655-4555) with questions on road closures.

Sunday, July 31, 2016, 4:30 PM
Additional drone activity has occurred in the restricted air space of the Sand Fire. When drones interfere with firefighting efforts, a wildfire has the potential to grow larger and cause more damage. An FAA Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in effect over the Sand Fire and any private aircraft or drone that violates the TFR could face serious criminal charges. Even without a TFR, anyone who hampers firefighting efforts could face charges­­­. For more information on drones the public can visit the FAA’s website at www.KnowBeforeYouFly.org. “If you fly, we can’t!­”

The Sand Fire is 93 percent contained and 41,432 acres. Fire managers now consider the contained dozer line that runs north and south from the North Fork Saddle Station part of the eastern perimeter. The unburned vegetation west of the contained line along the Santa Clara Divide Road is now within the perimeter, increasing the acreage total.

July 30, 2016 at 8:59 PM

Fire managers do not anticipate that the fire will spread. Crews will mop up and reinforce existing containment lines.

Today, some monsoonal moisture moved into the area, increasing the relative humidity. Thunderstorms developed 25-35 miles east of the fire. Weather tonight will be warm with moderate relative humidity recovery (35-55 percent).

Fire managers now consider the contained dozer line that runs north and south from the North Fork Saddle Station part of the eastern perimeter. The unburned vegetation west of the contained line along the Santa Clara Divide Road is now within the perimeter, increasing the acreage total.

July 30, 2016 at 9:21 AM 

The Sand Fire is now 93 percent contained and 38,875 acres. Resources include 1,697 total personnel, 100 engines, 46 hand crews, 10 helicopters, 17 water tenders, and 10 dozers. The US Forest Service and Los Angeles County Fire are in unified command.

The American Red Cross announced Friday that it closed the Highland High School evacuation shelter because residents are returning to their homes or seeking other lodging needs. The shelter at Hart High School remains open (24825 N. Newhall Ave., Santa Clarita).

Firefighters on the Sand Fire working in the Magic Mountain Wilderness Area have been using minimum impact suppression tactics (MIST). Such tactics are used to suppress fires with the least environmental, cultural, and social impacts. It is a light-on-the-land, minimum-tool approach to accomplishing suppression, mop up, and repair operations. MIST are never used at the expense of firefighter safety. Examples of such tactics include constructing fireline only to the width and depth necessary for halting fire spread; cutting only snags that are a safety hazard; allowing the fire to burn to natural barriers; using high-pressure sprayers on equipment to help prevent the spread of invasive plants. MIST guidelnes are not intended to represent a separate or distinct class of firefighting tactics but rather a mindset: how to suppress a wildfire while minimizing the long-term effects of the suppression action.

Road Closures:
1) Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road going into Bear Divide
2) Little Tujunga Canyon Road north of the Wildlife Way Station

July 29, 2016 at 7:12 AM

Good progress overnight with ongoing demobilization of excess resources.

July 28, 2016 at 7:12 PM

Fire behavior was moderate, backing down into a drainage on the east side. Crews are finding it difficult to get a complete burn with their tactical firing operation due to the fuel type.

Planned actions: Continue to protect structures and construct indirect and contingency (e.g. dozer) fireline. Construct direct line and lay hose. Mopup contained line and backhaul trash and excess equipment off the fireline.

July 28, 2016 at 5:46 PM

All road closures will be open at 6:00 pm with the exception of  Sand Canyon Road at Placerita Canyon Road going into Bear Divide and Little Tujunga Road north of the Wildlife Waystation.

July 28, 2016 at 7:52 AM

Planned actions today: Continue structure protection for affected residences. Continue to identify opportunities for successful direct-line construction and install hose around the fire. Continue indirect-line and contingency-line construction.

The weather continues to be hot and dry. However, in the absence of strong wind, fire behavior and growth is expected to be moderate, making terrain-driven runs uphill and then backing downhill.

July 27, 2016 at 9:11 PM

On the east side, the fire is hung up in a deep drainage. If winds align with the drainage, the fire could potentially spread into heavy fuels to the east. The north side of the fire is predicted to have minimal to no spread. The west side of the fire still has some potential to affect the Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon area. The south side of the fire continues to hold.

Sand Fire Unified Command—Southern California Interagency Incident Management Team 3, Los Angeles County Fire, and Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department—would like to express its gratitude and appreciation to the Golden Valley High School. By allowing the incident command post to be established on school property, the high school has played an instrumental role in the Sand Fire firefighting efforts. Thank you for graciously hosting and accommodating the firefighters.

Metrolink will operate full service along the Antelope Valley Line starting Thursday morning. Speed restrictions between the Vincent Grade/Acton and Via Princessa stations may cause early morning trains from Lancaster to be delayed by up to 15 minutes.

The first train Thursday morning, Antelope Valley Line train 200, will depart Lancaster at 3:58 a.m. All southbound trains will depart Lancaster at their scheduled times, including limited-stop train 282, which originates from Palmdale.

The determination to operate trains along the entire Antelope Valley Line was made with direction from officials battling the Sand Fire. If conditions change and rail service is once again stopped north of Via Princessa, Metrolink will have buses available to provide alternative service.

July 26, 2016 at 9:04 PM

Ongoing evacuated areas and hard closures remain closed for public safety. Local hazards including power lines, debris, and equipment may create safety concerns.

Recent drone activity has occurred over the fire. Sheriff’s deputies are actively attempting to locate and stop this intrusion. When drones interfere with firefighting efforts, a wildfire has the potential to grow larger and cause more damage in part because aircraft are not able to fly.

Fire was active today with uphill and wind driven runs and short range spotting. Fire made slow progress toward Mt. Gleason. Fire continues to burn in old growth, brush, and chaparral. Fuel moistures remain below critical levels. Some areas of the fire have not burned in over 30 years. Residents may see smoke from hot spots inside the fire perimeter. Fire growth today was minimal. Homeowners should remain vigilant as this is the beginning of a potentially long fire season. Review and implement your READY! SET! GO! Wildfire Action Plan before the next fire occurs.

STATISTICS
Unified Command with LACoFD / ANF / LASD
37,701 Acres, 25%containment
Structures Destroyed/Damaged:
18 Structures Destroyed
1 Structures Damaged
5 Minor Structures Damaged

OPERATIONS
Personnel: 2,982
Aircraft: 2

EVACUATED AREAS (Ongoing)
Little Tujunga Canyon Road from the Wildlife Way Station to Sand Canyon Road & Placerita Canyon Road

OPENINGS AND ONGOING ROAD CLOSURES/EVACUATIONS

SANTA CLARITA VALLEY OPENINGS
Placerita Canyon Road at the 14 Freeway
Golden Valley Road at the 14 Freeway
Via Princessa at Lost Canyon Road
Sand Canyon Road at Lost Canyon Road

SANTA CLARITA VALLEY ONGOING CLOSURES
Soledad Canyon Road at the 14 Freeway
Sand Canyon Road south of Placerita Canyon Road

AGUA DULCE OPENINGS
Escondido Canyon Road at the 14 Freeway

AGUA DULCE ONGOING HARD CLOSURES
Agua Dulce Canyon Road at the 14 Freeway (This is a soft closure, residents with ID ONLY)

Agua Dulce Canyon Road at Soledad Canyon Road (This is a hard closure. No entry)

ACTON OPENINGS
Crown Valley Parkway at the 14 Freeway
Crown Valley Parkway at Soledad Canyon Road

ACTON ONGOING HARD CLOSURE
Soledad Canyon Road at Bootlegger Canyon Road

LITTLE TUJUNGA HARD CLOSURE
Little Tujunga Canyon Road north of the Wildlife Way Station

EVACUATION STATISTICS
Evacuations affect approximately 1000 residents

EVACUATION CENTERS (Remain open at this time)
Hart High School, 24825 N. Newhall, Santa Clarita, 91321
Highland High School, 39055 25th Street West, Palmdale 93551

LARGE ANIMALS
AV Fairgrounds 2551 W. Avenue H, Lancaster, 93536
Pierce College is accepting large animals 6201 Winnetka, Woodland Hills 91367
Hansen Dam, 11770 Foothill Blvd, Lake View Terrace 91342

SMALL ANIMALS
Highland High School, 39055 25th Street West, Palmdale, 93551
Hart High School, 24825 N. Newhall, Santa Clarita, 91321
Castaic Animal Shelter 31044 Charlie Canyon Road, Castaic 91384

Metrolink, in coordination with first responders at the scene, has determined that, due to the fluid conditions of the fire adjacent to railroad track in Santa Clarita, Metrolink cannot operate trains along the entire Antelope Valley Line tomorrow.

However, to provide much-needed transportation options for its entire Antelope Valley Line, Metrolink will offer train service between Los Angeles Union Station and Via Princessa. Metrolink has secured buses to connect passengers to and from Vincent Grade/Acton, Palmdale and Lancaster stations.

Additionally, Antelope Valley Line trains 215, 218, 282 and 285 will be cancelled. Buses service will not be offered to connect to those trains. All other trains are expected to operate between Los Angeles Union Station and Via Princessa, with buses connecting riders to and from stations north of Via Princessa.

Metrolink trains have not operated north of Via Princessa this week due to the fire. Tomorrow will be the first day this week that buses will be used to provide service to Metrolink riders along the entire Antelope Valley Line.

Metrolink is working to secure these buses for the rest of the week in case they are needed to continue to provide transportation options for Antelope Valley riders.

Metrolink is appreciative for the patience of our riders throughout this situation.
For real-time service updates, please visit www.metrolinktrains.com or follow @Metrolink on Twitter.

July 26, 2016 at 3:50 PM

Recent drone activity has occurred over the fire in the Pacoima Reservoir Area. Sheriff Deputies are actively attempting to locate and stop this intrusion. When drones interfere with firefighting efforts, a wildfire has the potential to grow larger and cause more damage. On the Sand Fire­­, an FAA Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in effect and any private aircraft or drone that violates the TFR could face serious criminal charges. Even without a TFR, anyone who hampers firefighting efforts could face charges. For more information on drones the public can visit the FAA’s website at www.KnowBeforeYouFly.org. “If you fly, we can’t!­”

July 26, 2016 at 9:44 AM 

Last night the fire was active as night-shift crews constructed handline near Placerita Road on the northwest side. An infrared flight revealed that the north side is the hottest and most active, while within the fire, heat is scattered. Today, structure-defense firefighters will continue to work in affected communities. Crews around the fire’s perimeter will construct direct handline, dozer line, and contingecy line; improve and hold existing line; and mop up contained line. Aircraft operations continue, including dropping water and retardant as needed to assist firefighters on the ground.

The fire in 37,473 acres (an increase of 4,356 acres) 25 percent contained. Resources include 335 engines, 58 hand crews, 26 helicopters, 18 water tenders, 20 dozers, and 3,048 personnel. The incident command post is at Golden Valley High School. A second basecamp with more space for engines is being established at Central Park in Santa Clarita.

Weather and Fire Behavior: Today will be hotter, drier, and windier than yesterday. The temperature will be in the high 90s to low 100s. Relative humidity will drop to the low teens and single digits. Ridgetop winds will start out weak (5 to 10 mph) from the west but will strenthen (10 to18 mph) and shift to the southwest this afternoon. Gusts from 15 to 30 mph can be expected. Fire-behavior analysts expect the fire to be more active today than it was yetserday, especially on the east side.

Closures and Evacuations: The Sand Canyon Road exit off the northbound 14 Freeway is closed. At 7:00 Monday night, many residents were allowed to return home. The following areas remain closed:

· Placerita Canyon Road, from Running Horse Lane to Pacy Street

· Little Tujunga Canyon Road, from the Wildlife Way Station to intersection of Sand Canyon Road and Placerita Canyon Road

· Agua Dulce Canyon Road, from approximately one quarter mile south of the 14 Freeway to Soledad Canyon Road; Soledad Canyon Road one mile east and one mile west of Agua Dulce Road

The following areas are open only to residents with a photo ID:

· Via Princessa and Lost Canyon Road

· Canyon Park Blvd and Lost Canyon Road

· Sand Canyon Road and Lost Canyon Road

· Escondido Canyon Road and the 14 Freeway

· Crown Valley Road and the 14 Freeway

· North end of Crown Valley Road and Soledad Canyon Road

Safety: Numerous downed power lines, which could potentially be energized, remain in areas that were repopulated Monday night. Southern California Edison is surveying and identifying downed lines but asks that residents report any lack of power or downed lines they observe by calling 800-655-4555.

The Sand Fire is under unified command with SoCal Team 3 (Incident Commander Mike Wakoski) representing the US Forest Service, Los Angeles County Fire (Deputy Fire Chief John Tripp), and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (Sheriff Roosevelt Johnson). Assisting agencies include Los Angeles Fire Department, California Office of Emergency Services, CAL FIRE, California Highway Patrol, Los Angeles County Public Works, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Southern California Edison, Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control, and American Red Cross.

July 26, 2016 at 7:20 AM 

South Coast AQMD issued a Smoke Advisory effective today until midnight tomorrow based on unhealthy air quality conditions as a result of the Sand Fire. Smoke is moving toward the south east and multiple areas near the San Fernando and San Gabriel Valleys will be directly impacted. You can find a list of the areas on the AQMD website or follow them on Twitter.

Yesterday, ALL residents in ALL evacuated areas will be allowed to return home, with the EXCEPTION of those located on Placerita Canyon Road from Running Horse Lane to Pacy Street, Little Tujunga Canyon Road from the Wildlife Way Station to Sand Canyon Road & Placerita Canyon Road and Aqua Dulce Canyon Road from 1/4 mile south of the 14 Freeway to Soledad Canyon Road and Soledad Canyon Road 1 mile from Aqua Dulce Road in both directions. These three areas will remain closed. Large animals will be able to return as well

July 25, 2016 at 9:23 PM

The Sand Fire is approximately 35,155 acres and 10% contained. United States Forest Service, Los Angeles County Fire and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office are in “Unified Command.” Evacuations are in place.

3,379 firefighters are engaged on the Sand Fire, resources include 435 engines, 54 hand crews, 26 helicopters, 22 dozers and 17 water tenders. The Incident Command Post is located at Golden Valley High School.

July 25, 2016 at 5:51 PM

At 7:00 pm, all evacuations will be lifted and residents will be able to return home, EXCEPT those located on Placerita Canyon Road between Running Horse Lane & Pacy Street, and Little Tujunga Canyon Rd between the Wildlife Way Station to Sand Canyon Road & Placerita Canyon Road.

July 25, 2016 at 1:48 PM 

Angeles National Forest tweet:  If you are in a mandatory evacuation area, leave immediately don’t wait. This is Via Princessa right now.

July 25, 2016 at 12:57 PM

As temperatures rise and the potential for winds increases, Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon remain at risk, as well as Soledad Canyon, and moving into Agua Dulce and Acton. Residents in Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon should remain vigilant, and residents of Soledad Canyon, Agua Dulce, and Acton should remain on high alert.

On the south end, Placerita Canyon Rd and Little Tujunga Canyon Rd will remain closed. Placerita Canyon Rd between the 14 Freeway and Pacy will remain a hard closure.

July 25, 2016 at 11:26 AM

Flareup on Running Hrse Ln n/o Placerita Cyn, evacuated Saturday afternoon. If you are still there, LEAVE if safe. You may need to shelter in place.

July 25, 2016 at 8:58 AM

The Sand Fire has burned 33,117 with 10% containment. Winds will be out of the Southwest at 30 mph picking up in the afternoon. Fire behavior is expected to be similar to previous days. The fire is passive when winds remain low in the morning. Fuels are responding to the the 5-year drought, low humidity, and extreme temperatures which causes the fire to move quickly.

Damage assessment teams are carefully evaluating impact to structures from yesterday’s firefight. As soon as the updated information becomes available, it will be provided. Currently, there are 18 structures destroyed and 1 damaged.

Personnel: 2,964
Crews: 43
Engines: 356
Dozers: 14
Water Tenders: 16
Helicopters: 26
Rapid Extraction Team: 2 (Firefighter rescue)

Fatality: 1 Civilian
Injuries: 2 firefighters minor

Residents impacted: 20,000
Residents evacuated: 10,300

770 Large animals currently in the care of Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control. Large animals can go to Hanson Dam, Pierce College, Antelope Valley Fairgrounds.

Small animals can go to Hart High School and Highland High School

EVACUATIONS
East of the 14 Freeway, from Golden Valley Road to Sand Canyon Road, excluding the Sand Canyon
Mobile Home Park (residents to evacuate; commercial businesses to shelter in place)
East side of Via Princessa from Lost Canyon Road to end of Via Princessa and all streets east.
Lost Canyon Road from Via Princessa to the Santa Clara River, and all streets to the east.
Sierra Highway @ Shady Lane to Sierra Hwy at the 14.
Escondido at the 14 to Sierra Hwy at the 14.
Agua Dulce Canyon Road north to the 14 Freeway.
Crown Valley Road north to the 14 Freeway.
Soledad Canyon Road between Agua Dulce & Crown Valley.
All residents in Sand Canyon from Lost Canyon to Bear Divide.
All residents in Placerita Canyon from the Na ture Center to Sand Canyon.
Little Tujunga from Bear Divide to LA River Ranger District (Station), 12371 Little Tujunga Cyn Rd.

Instructions:
Fire behavior will be extreme today as winds pick up out of the SW at 30 mph in the afternoon. Please comply with evacuation orders. Large animals should be evacuated early in the am to avoid congestion and allowing access to firefighting equipment.

July 25, 2016 at 7:10 AM

United States Forest Service, Los Angeles County Fire and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office are in “Unified Command.” Evacuations are in place. Over 2964 firefighters are engaged in initial attack. Resources include 356 engines, 43 hand crews, 16 water tenders, 26 helicopters and 14 dozers. The Incident Command Post is located at Golden Valley High School.

MANDATORY EVACUATIONS:
East of the 14 Freeway, from Golden Valley Road to Sand Canyon Road, excluding the Sand Canyon Mobile Home Park (residents to evacuate; commercial businesses to shelter in place)
East side of Via Princessa from Lost Canyon Road to end of Via Princessa and all streets east.
Lost Canyon Road from Via Princessa to the Santa Clara River, and all streets to the east.
Sierra Highway @ Shady Lane to Sierra Hwy at the 14.
Escondido at the 14 to Sierra Hwy at the 14.
Agua Dulce Canyon Road north to the 14 Freeway.
Crown Valley Road north to the 14 Freeway.
Soledad Canyon Road between Agua Dulce & Crown Valley.
All residents in Sand Canyon from Lost Canyon to Bear Divide.
All residents in Placerita Canyon from the Nature Center to Sand Canyon.

ROAD CLOSURES:
Sand Canyon and Soledad Canyon – no entry into Sand Canyon.
No access to Sand Canyon at northbound 14 Freeway.
Sand Canyon and Lost Canyon – no traffic into Sand Canyon.
Placerita Canyon and the 14 Freeway – no traffic into Placerita Canyon.
Soledad Canyon Road eastbound from the 14 Freeway.
Agua Dulce Canyon Road eastbound from the 14 Freeway.
Crown Valley Road eastbound from the 14 Freeway.
Sand Canyon Road east of Placerita Canyon to 12300 Little Tujunga.

EVACUATION CENTERS:
Highland High School 39055 25th Street West, Palmdale, 93551
Hart High School, 24825 N. Newhall, Santa Clarita, 91321
Lakeview Terrace Recreation Center, 11075 Foothill Blvd, Lakeview Terrace, 91340

LARGE ANIMAL EVACUATION:
Antelope Valley Fair Grounds 2551 W. Avenue H. Lancaster CA 93536

July 24, 2016 at 8:21 PM

CA IMT1 Team 5 (Minton) mobilized. In-briefing 0800 tomorrow at Golden Valley High School.

Evacuations still in place for Little Tujunga Canyon

DWP have de-energized power 500KV lines due to fire behavior. Causing power outages to LA basin and Santa Clarita Valley.

Evacuation plans for Sand Canyon, Placerita Canyon, Soledad Canyon and parts of Acton and Agua Dulce.

FMAG has been approved.

July 24, 2016 at 6:27 PM

East of the 14 Freeway, from Golden Valley Road to Sand Canyon Road, excluding the Sand Canyon Mobile Home Park. Residents are to evacuate; businesses are to shelter in place.

July 24, 2016 at 6:23 PM

New Evacuations:

East side of Via Princessa from Lost Canyon Road to end of Via Princessa and all streets east.

Lost Canyon Road from Via Princessa to the Santa Clara River, and all streets east.

Fire has jumped Placerita Canyon approximately 1/4 mile west of Sand Canyon, and is well established and moving toward the north.

If you are still in the evacuated area, it is imperative that you leave NOW.

Recent drone activity has occured over the fire in the Bear Divide Area. When drones interfere with firefighting efforts, a wildfire has the potential to grow larger and cause more damage. On the San Gabriel Complex­­, an FAA Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in effect and any private aircraft or drone that violates the TFR could face serious criminal charges. Even without a TFR, anyone who hampers firefighting efforts could face charges­­­. For more information on drones the public can visit the FAA’s website at www.KnowBeforeYouFly.org. “If you fly, we can’t!­”

July 24, 2016 at 3:39 PM

14 Fwy closed N&S from the 5 to Ave.N.

EVAC: Sierra Hwy & Shady Ln.to Sierra Hwy @ 14 & Escondido @ 14 to Sierra Hwy at the 14 Fwy

July 24, 2016 at 3:26 PM

Large Animal Evacuations

Large animals are no longer being accepted at Hansen Dam, Pierce College, or Jack Bones Equestrian Center.

Antelope Valley Fairgrounds is accepting large animals.

Antelope Valley Fairgrounds
2551 West Avenue H
Lancaster

July 24, 2016 at 1:17 PM

Mandatory evacuations: Agua Dulce Cyn Rd north to 14; Crown Valley north to 14; all of Soledad Cyn in between.

New Evacuation Center for these areas:
Highland High School
39055 25th Street West
Palmdale, 93551

Instructions: Evacuate immediately!

July 24, 2016 at 1:07 PM

Due to an unexpected wind event, the plan for repopulation of the Sand Canyon area has been rescinded. All evacuations remain in place. New evacuations also forthcoming.

July 24, 2016 at 12:39 PM

Due to changing winds Sand Canyon residents WILL NOT be allowed into evacuated areas at 1:00 p.m. Stay tuned for further updates.

July 24, 2016 at 12:25 PM

At 1:00 pm, residents in the Sand Canyon area will be allowed to return, with the EXCEPTION of those east of Placerita Canyon Rd on Sand Canyon Rd, which will remain closed.

The Sand Canyon Rd exit on the northbound 14 Freeway will remain closed. Exit the 14 at Soledad Canyon Rd and travel southbound to Sand Canyon Rd.

All residents entering the area will need to provide identification.

On the south end, Placerita Canyon Rd and Little Tujunga Canyon Rd will remain closed.

Placerita Canyon Rd between the 14 Freeway and Pacy will remain a hard closure.

PLEASE NOTE: Residents in Sand Canyon and Placerita Canyon should continue to remain vigilant and monitor conditions and news. Residents in Soledad Canyon, Agua Dulce, and Acton should remain on HIGH ALERT.

July 24, 2016 at 10:45 AM

New Large Animal Evacuation Site: Pierce College, 6201 Winnetka Ave, Woodland Hills

July 24, 2016 at 9:46 AM 

Today the Sand Fire continues to burn with firefighting personnel battling to gain control and increase containment. Firefighters will remain prepping and providing structure defense around homes and property while providing for public safety and firefighter safety.

The Sand Fire is approximately 22,000 acres and 10% contained. Over 1,673 firefighters are engaged in initial attack. Resources include 122 engines, 39 hand crews, 15 helicopters and 8 dozers. The Incident Command Post is located at Golden Valley High School.

Los Angeles County and the San Gabriel Mountains are under a Red Flag Warning. Crews will be experiencing temperatures highs of 97 degrees. Winds will be increasing through the day from the South at 10 – 15 MPH with gust of 20 MPH possible. Humidity will be at 10% with an expected cooling trend and slightly higher relative humidity’s firefighters expect to continue to continue making good progress. With the weather pattern changing, it will provide better visibility for pilots, expect to see more aviation assists helping slow the fire progression and allow firefighters on the ground to safely engage and increase containment

Existing road closures and evacuations are still in effect until further notice. The evacuation centers at Hart High School at 24825 N. Newhall, Santa Clarita, 9132 and Lakeview Terrace Recreation Center, 11075 Foothill Blvd, Lakeview Terrance 91340. All large animals should go to Pierce College at 6201 Winnetka Ave, Woodland Hills, CA 91371.

18 homes have been destroyed with 1 damaged. Residents in Sand Canyon and Placenta Canyon should remain vigilant. Residents in Soledad Canyon going into Agua Dulce and Acton should remain on high alert.

The Sand Fire is under unified Command, Mike Wakoski commanding with John Tripp, Deputy Fire Chief, Los Angeles County Fire, Roosevelt Johnson, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Assisting agencies include Los Angeles Fire Department, California Office of Emergency Services, Cal Fire, California Highway Patrol, Los Angeles County Public Works, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Edison, Animal Control and American Red Cross.

July 23, 2016 at 8:54 PM

Per LA COUNTY FIRE DEPT: SCV-Castaic-Val Verde-Agua Dulce-Gorman

Structures Destroyed/Damaged: We are aware that there are structures that have been destroyed or damaged in the Bear Divide and Sand Canyon areas; however, we cannot confirm any particular properties. Damage Assessment Teams are in the area, and we will release that information when it becomes available.

There will be three helicopters working throughout the night tonight (2 water-dropping, 1 medical)

Road Closures:
Sand Canyon and Soledad Canyon – no entry into Sand Canyon.
No access to Sand Canyon at northbound 14 Freeway.
Sand Canyon and Lost Canyon – no traffic into Sand Canyon.
Placerita Canyon and the 14 Freeway – no traffic into Placerita Canyon.
Soledad Canyon Road eastbound from the 14 Freeway.
Agua Dulce Canyon Road eastbound from the 14 Freeway .
Crown Valley Road eastbound from the 14 Freeway.
Sand Canyon Road east of Placerita Canyon to 12300 Little Tujunga.

Mandatory Evacuations:
All residents in Sand Canyon from Lost Canyon to Bear Divide.
All residents in Placerita Canyon from the Nature Center to Sand Canyon.
Little Tujunga from Bear Divide to LA River Ranger District (Station), 12371 Little Tujunga Cyn Rd.

July 23, 2016 at 7:22 PM

All evacuations encompass approximately 1,500 homes.

100 Commercial buildings threatened.

1 Structure destroyed

ROAD CLOSURES:

Sand Canyon and Soledad Canyon – no entry into Sand Canyon

No access to Sand Canyon at northbound 14 Freeway.

Sand Canyon and Lost Canyon – no traffic into Sand Canyon

Placerita Canyon and the 14 Freeway – no traffic into Placerita Canyon

Soledad Canyon Road eastbound from the 14 Freeway.

Agua Dulce Canyon Road eastbound from the 14 Freeway.

Crown Valley Road eastbound from the 14 Freeway.

Sand Canyon Road east of Placerita Canyon to 12300 Little Tujunga.

EVACUATIONS:

All residents in Sand Canyon from Lost Canyon to Bear Divide (extended from Robinson Ranch Golf Course)

All residents in Placerita Canyon from the Nature Center to Sand Canyon

Little Tujunga from Bear Divide to LA River Ranger District (Station), 12371 Little Tujunga Cyn Rd.

EVACUATION CENTERS:

– Golden Valley High School, 27051 Robert C. Lee Parkway

– Lakeview Terrace Recreation Center, 11075 Foothill Blvd, Lakeview Terrace, 91340

July 23, 2016 at 6:24 PM

The fire has grown to 20,000 acres and still 10%. Aircraft will continue to drop water and fire retardant.

• ICP is at Central Park, Santa Clarita.
• 300 people evacuated.
• 100 homes evacuated.
• 1,000 homes threatened.
• 100 commercial properties threatened.

July 23, 2016 at 4:08 PM

Sand Canyon mandatory evac extended. Now all residents from Lost Canyon to Bear Divide. Structures threatened.

July 23, 2016 at 3:21 PM

New mandatory evacuations – All residents in Placerita Canyon from the Nature Center to Sand Canyon.

July 23, 2016 at 1:52 PM

The Santa Clarita area is under a Red Flag Warning. Crews will be experiencing temperatures highs of 106 degrees. Winds will be coming from the East at 10 MPH will gusts of 12 MPH. Humidity will be at 10%.

July 23, 2016 at 11:40 AM 

The fire has grown to 11,000 acres and is now 10% contained. 100 homes remain evacuated.

July 23, 2016 at 8:44 AM 

Evacuations:

Mandatory Evacuations for residents living on Little Tujunga Canyon Rd above Gold Creek to Bear Divide.

Evacuation shelters: Residents – Golden Valley High School 27051 Robert C. Lee Parkway, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.

Large Animals – Pitchess Detention Center (Jack Bones Equestrian Center) 29320 The Old Road Castaic, CA 91384.

Mandatory evacuations in place from Bear Divide to Gold Creek and along Little Tujunga Road down to the Los Angeles River Ranger District Office located at 12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Road, San Fernando, CA 91342.

Voluntary evacuations are in place from Gold-Creek to Camp 16. Approximately 300 homes.

July 23, 2016 at 8:41 AM

This smoke advisory is in effect today, July 23, 2016 and will expire at midnight tomorrow night. If conditions warrant SCAQMD will update this information.

A brush fire named the Sand Fire is burning in Forest Park, near the 14 Freeway. The fire is currently reported as 5500 acres with 0 percent containment. Smoke is moving toward the southeast this evening and falling ash has been reported in the San Fernando and San Gabriel Valleys. Depending on containment of the fire smoke may settle in the valley areas overnight. Air quality may reach Unhealthy levels in areas directly impacted by smoke.

Areas of direct smoke impacts at times and Unhealthy air quality will likely include:

 Portions of the Central Los Angeles Area (Forecast Area 1),
 Portions of the West San Fernando Valley (Forecast Area 6),
 Portions of the East San Fernando Valley (Forecast Area 7),
 Portions of the West San Gabriel Valley (Forecast Area 8),
 Portions of the East San Gabriel Valley (Forecast Area 9),
 Portions of the Pomona/Walnut Valley (Forecast Area 10),
 Portions of the Santa Clarita Valley (Forecast Area 13) and
 Portions of the San Gabriel Mountains (Forecast Area 15).
In any area impacted by smoke: Everyone should avoid any vigorous outdoor or indoor exertion; people with respiratory or heart disease, older adults, and children should remain indoors. Keep windows and doors closed or seek alternate shelter. Run your air conditioner if you have one and keep the fresh air intake closed and the filter clean to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. Avoid using a swamp cooler or whole-house fan to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. To avoid worsening the health effects of smoke, don’t use indoor or outdoor wood-burning appliances, including fireplaces.

July 22, 2016 at 10:07 PM

SoCal IMT2 (Wakoski) ordered, inbrief 07/23/2016 at 0800.

July 22, 2016 at 8:42 PM

The Sand Fire started at 2:14 PM-PST on July 22, 2016 near the northbound HWY 14 and Sand Canyon Rd. Currently the Fire is approximately 2500 acres and is 0% contained.

Los Angeles County Fire and the Forest Service are in “Unified Command.”

About 300 + firefighters are engaged in initial attack. Resources include 29 engines, 12 hand crews, 5 helicopters, 8 fixed wing aircraft and 2 dozers.

Evacuation shelters:

Residents – Golden Valley High School 27051 Robert C. Lee Parkway, Santa Clarita, CA 91350.

Large Animals – Pitchess Detention Center (Jack Bones Equestrian Center) 29320 The Old Road Castaic, CA 91384.