Rapidly Expanding Canyon Fire Triggers Mass Evacuation North of Los Angeles
A fast-moving brush fire known as the Canyon Fire erupted on August 7, 2025, north of Los Angeles, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate amid scorching heat and dry conditions. The fire, initially about 30 acres in size, rapidly expanded to more than 7.6 square miles (approximately 4,900 acres) by late Thursday, pushing the Ventura and Los Angeles County fire departments into unified command as they battle the blaze.
The wildfire started near Holser Canyon Road, northeast of the small town of Piru, close to the Ventura-Los Angeles county line. Fueled by a regional heat wave with temperatures soaring up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit and low humidity, the fire swiftly spread eastward toward communities including Val Verde, Hasley Canyon, and Hathaway Ranch.
Authorities issued evacuation orders impacting approximately 2,700 residents and 700 structures in Los Angeles County, with an additional 14,000 residents and 5,000 structures under evacuation warnings. The Lake Piru Recreation Area and surrounding communities in Ventura County also faced mandatory evacuations. The fire’s rapid expansion has raised serious concerns due to its proximity to major power lines and previously fire-impacted zones such as Lake Castaic, which suffered a significant burn earlier this year.
More than 400 firefighters, supported by several aircraft including planes and helicopters, remain on the front lines attempting to contain the blaze. Fire officials have deployed multiple strike teams of engines, hand crews, and bulldozers to reinforce containment efforts. Despite these resources, the fire had zero containment as of the evening of August 7, and the situation remains volatile with dry winds expected to increase in the afternoon, further challenging firefighting efforts.
The Canyon Fire’s swift growth amid hot and dry weather highlights the continuing wildfire threat throughout California, exacerbated by climate change and seasonal drought conditions. Emergency response officials urge residents in the affected zones to comply promptly with evacuation orders and stay updated via Ventura County Emergency Information and Los Angeles County Emergency websites.
Los Padres National Forest lies near the fire-affected areas, adding to concerns about natural resources and outdoor recreation impacts due to the proximity of the blaze to Lake Piru and Lake Castaic. The cause of the Canyon Fire remains under investigation.
Officials continue to monitor and assess the fire’s movement, with updates expected as containment efforts persist. The community and firefighting agencies face a day of extreme fire danger as the heat wave sustains, making rapid containment a critical priority.