A wildfire in Gorman, California, has led to evacuations of at least 1,200 people, burned over 16 square miles, and damaged commercial buildings. Efforts to control the blaze are underway as authorities monitor the situation closely amid high wildfire activity levels in 2024.
Post Fire in Gorman, California Forces Evacuations and Burns Over 16 Square Miles
On Saturday, June 15, 2024, a wildfire named the Post Fire erupted near the Interstate 5 freeway in Gorman, California, approximately 62 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The blaze, which began around 1:45 PM, prompted the evacuation of at least 1,200 people from the Hungry Valley recreation area. Officials also closed both Hungry Valley and the Pyramid Lake reservoir as a result.
By Sunday, June 16, 2024, the fire had consumed over 16 square miles (approximately 11,000 acres) and damaged two commercial buildings. The cause of the wildfire remains undetermined.
Efforts to control the fire included constructing perimeter fire lines and deploying aircraft, though visibility was limited. More than 300 firefighters from various agencies, including units from Los Angeles, Ventura, and Kern counties, CalFire, Los Padres Fire Protection, and Angeles National Forest Fire Management, were engaged in combating the flames.
Strong winds, especially in the evening, posed additional challenges to firefighting efforts. Despite the fire’s proximity to major highways and structures, no homes have been reported as threatened, and no injuries have been documented.
As the firefighting efforts continue, local authorities have advised residents to remain indoors, keeping windows and doors closed to minimize exposure to smoke and ash. With wildfire activity across the U.S. reported to be above average in 2024, officials remain vigilant for further incidents.
