Brush fire threatens homes in Santa Clarita, prompts evacuation warning

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (KABC) -- A brush fire that erupted in the Santa Clarita area on Wednesday afternoon is threatening homes and has prompted evacuation warnings.

The Pointe Fire is burning in the area of 21300 Centre Pointe Parkway. Los Angeles County firefighters first responded to a report of the brush fire at 1:40 p.m., and a second alarm was requested at 2:08 p.m.

In the latest update from the fire department, officials say the fire is approximately 33 acres. An evacuation warning is in place for zone SCL-CARLBOYER.

Jonathan Torres with the Los Angeles County Fire Department told Eyewitness News that just under 200 personnel are on the ground, helping to battle the blaze. Crews also have two firehawks and two helitankers in the sky, making water drops.

A bulldozer is also on the scene, putting up a perimeter on the ground.

Firefighters are being assisted by strategically placed fire breaks in the area, which are dirt roads that provide a barrier between areas of brush.

A reuinfication point has been established at the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center, located at 20850 Centre Point Parkway, according to the Santa Clarita Calley Sheriff's Station. Metrolink trains have been shut down between Via Princessa and Newhall.

AIR7 video shows smoke billowing over Soledad Canyon Road. Residents in the nearby neighborhood were seen exiting their homes and loading up their cars.

Video also shows a bee colony right outside the perimeter of the fire. Torres said officials are aware of the colony and are working to protect it.

The fire comes on the hottest day of Southern California's summer heat wave. Much of the region is under an Extreme Heat Warning.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

This is a breaking news story. More details will be added as more information becomes available.