Creek Fire now 70 percent contained after destroying 56 homes near Sylmar
SUNLAND, Calif. (KABC) -- The containment level of the Creek Fire near Sylmar increased to 70 percent as firefighters on Friday made progress against the 15,619-acre blaze, officials said.
Multiple agencies battled the destructive wildfire since it broke out Tuesday morning just north of Lake View Terrace. Seven firefighters were injured in the firefight.
The blaze has leveled 56 homes and 49 outbuildings, while damaging 45 homes and 25 structures, according to Cal Fire.
The inferno prompted the evacuation of about 99,000 residents after it erupted in Kagel Canyon, just northeast of the 210 Freeway.
All evacuation orders were rescinded by Thursday afternoon, with the exception of Limeklin Canyon. Shadow Hills north of Sunland Boulevard and the Riverwood community were open only to residents.
By Friday night, all evacuation orders and warnings were lifted, as well as road closures. The only exception was Santiago Estates and Little Tujunga from Middle Ranch to Live Oak Campground, which was only open to residents.
Mayor Eric Garcetti declared a local state of emergency in Los Angeles due to the blaze. Nearly 1,700 firefighters were deployed to the burn area. Gov. Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency for Los Angeles County and was granted access to federal assistance for all of Southern California by President Donald Trump Friday.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
