A wildfire exploded in Los Angeles County on Friday afternoon, triggering evacuation orders and closing a stretch of highway in Gorman.
The fast-moving Ridge Fire has jumped Interstate 5, prompting officials to issue an Evacuation Order for Zone GOR-HUNGRYVALLEY-A.
The blaze was first reported shortly after 3 p.m. and has since quickly grown to 1,100 acres, according to Cal Fire, forcing the closure of the freeway in both directions; however, all lanes have now reopened.
The Ridge Fire burns east of Interstate 5 near Gorman in northern Los Angeles County on Friday. UC San Diego/Alert California
The fire forced the closure of Interstate 5 in both directions.
An additional 25 engines and 10 hand crews have been requested immediate need.
With 0% containment, the fire continues to spread, prompting emergency management agencies to establish critical emergency zones.
Beyond the mandatory order for Zone GOR-HUNGRYVALLEY-A, Evacuation Warnings are now active for zones GOR-HUNGRYVALLEY-B, GOR-E001-A, and Kern County Zone KRN-545.
Officials urge anyone along the Interstate 5 corridor between Highway 138 and the county line to remain highly alert.
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🚨 8/7/26 3:45pm: Wildfire North of Gorman.
An EVACUATION WARNING has been issued if you are along I-5 freeway between highway 138 & LA County line.
Prepare to leave if you live there or are nearby. Consider leaving now if you need more time to evacuate.
1/2 pic.twitter.com/ib35SHs3Xt
— Ready Los Angeles County (@ReadyLACounty) August 7, 2026
The blaze broke out a day after the Dora Fire erupted in the nearby the community of Neenach, west of Lancaster, forcing the closure of a portion of Highway 138.
The Dora Fire grew to 805 acres but was 88% contained as of Friday afternoon.