Ridge Fire Near Gorman Expands Rapidly, Leading to 5 Freeway Closures and Evacuations

A brush fire erupted in Gorman on Friday afternoon, spreading across both sides of the 5 Freeway and causing significant traffic congestion through the Grapevine. Initially reported around 3 p.m. near the 39000 block of Gorman Post Road, the fire, called the Ridge fire, consumed roughly 100 acres of brush in northwestern Los Angeles County swiftly.

By less than three hours, it had grown to 1,000 acres, confirmed by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. At around 4:45 p.m., the fire breached the 5 Freeway, leading authorities to issue evacuation orders for parts of Gorman and Hungry Valley to the west.

There are also evacuation warnings for areas south and north of the fire, extending into parts of Kern County. Affected areas’ evacuation maps can be accessed for more information.

The National Weather Service reports south-to-southeast winds blowing at 6 to 10 mph, with gusts reaching up to 15 mph at the fire site. Current temperatures are in the lower 90s, accompanied by a humidity level of approximately 18%.

This situation continues to evolve and updates will follow as more information becomes available.