Firefighters make progress against Post Fire in Gorman amid high temps

A Wildfire Smoke Advisory is in effect for the Santa Clarita and Castaic areas.

Smoke from the Post Fire in Gorman is drifting southeast toward the San Fernando Valley and parts of the Angeles National Forest.

The AQMD is warning people in the Santa Clarita and San Fernando Valley areas to stay indoors as harmful smoke from the fire in Gorman drifts southward.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District expects air quality index levels to reach unhealthy levels. Those closest to the fire and smoke are urged to limit their exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed.

Monday morning, the Post Fire is still burning the hillsides. Video shows firefighters battling the flames and charred cars burned over the weekend.

The fire around 1:45 p.m. Saturday at Ralph's Ranch and Gorman School roads near the 5 Freeway in the Gorman area of northern Los Angeles County.

The flames scorched 15,610 acres by Monday morning with only 8% containment.

An L.A. County fire spokesperson said three injuries were reported: two adults and one child. A firefighter also had minor injuries.

The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for the 5 Freeway corridor in L.A. and Ventura county mountains due to strong winds in the area.

It was extended until 6 p.m. Tuesday due to strong northeast winds and low humidity. A high wind warning is also in place until 3 a.m. Tuesday.

Forecasters said winds of 45 to 55 mph were expected, with even stronger gusts.

The hot and dry conditions are increasing the potential for wildfires to rapidly spread and for small grass fires to quickly turn into large wildfires.

The Post Fire was threatening nearby structures and prompted the evacuation of about 1,200 people from the Hungry Valley State Vehicular Recreation Area. The wind continued pushing the flames south toward Pyramid Lake, which was also closed, and street closures were in place south of Ralphs Ranch Road at Quail Lake Road.

Additionally, evacuation warnings were issued for areas south of Pyramid Lake between Old Ridge Route and the L.A. County line, including Paradise Ranch Estates.

"We have 1,200 people evacuated, and no plans for any other evacuations at the moment," said Little. "But this is a dynamic situation."

"Just be ready as far as evacuations are concerned. Have all of your important items ready to go at a moment's notice."