Drone flying at night. Photo: Shutterstock The Bouquet Fire in California’s Angeles National Forest has reached 63% containment, and firefighters continue strengthening firelines and tackling hot spots that could reignite.
The fire was discovered at 2:16 p.m. on October 3 near Bouquet Canyon Road, south of Bouquet Reservoir. It is burning in chaparral and grass across steep terrain with limited access.
Ground crews are constructing and improving firelines while searching for areas of remaining heat. Firefighters are extinguishing hot spots that could flare up again if winds increase or temperatures rise.
A heat-seeking drone was also used to scan sections of the fire perimeter, providing video and location mapping to support crews. The Angeles National Forest's night-flying helicopter and engine crews are working on the identified areas overnight.
Representation of fire in California. Photo: ShutterstockDespite the progress, evacuations remain in place. A Level 3, “Go” evacuation order covers several areas, with Level 2, “Set” evacuation warnings also in effect.
An evacuation shelter has opened at the Castaic Sports Complex Community Room at 31230 Castaic Road in Castaic. Small pets are welcome at the shelter.
Bouquet Canyon Road remains closed from Spunky Canyon to milepost 5.7. The Angeles National Forest has also temporarily closed the Rowher Flat Off-Highway Vehicle Area, accessed from Vasquez Truck Trail, and the Drinkwater OHV Area, accessed from San Francisquito Canyon Road, for public safety.
Residents in affected areas are being advised to follow official evacuation instructions and monitor local emergency updates as firefighting operations continue.