Fast-moving wildfire destroys homes, forces overnight evacuations and cripples Los Angeles freeways

Oliver Knight/iStock(LOS ANGELES) — An apocalyptic scene is emerging in Southern California after fast-moving wildfires broke out overnight, destroying homes and forcing residents to flee.

The blazes are closing some schools and even crippling Los Angeles freeways, leaving frantic drivers in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

#BREAKING: The #SaddleridgeFire has completely consumed the 5 freeway in the #newhall pass… MAJOR FIRE EMERGENCY #losangeles @abc7 #abc7eyewitness pic.twitter.com/kSmr7EExT0

— Chris Cristi (@abc7chriscristi) October 11, 2019

The Saddleridge Fire has consumed over 4,000 acres in the San Fernando valley, just north of Los Angeles, and with roadways blocked, some residents fled their homes on foot at 3 a.m.

#Saddleridgefire: 15-20 acres burning in Sylmar near Yarnell and 210. The 210 is shut down in this area.

An evacuee told me he’s saw at least 5 houses burning. Driving in to see what’s happening in the neighborhood. pic.twitter.com/eMTU5GMsK2

— Veronica Miracle (@ABC7Veronica) October 11, 2019

At least nine fires are burning in the Golden State Friday morning, including five in Southern California, fueled by gusty winds blowing through the region.

Wind gusts reached 60 mph in Los Angeles County and 70 mph in San Bernardino County Friday morning. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued an extreme fire danger from Los Angeles to San Diego for Friday morning through Friday afternoon.

Fire engulfs home on Darby ave in #PorterRanch @abc7 #abc7eyewitness pic.twitter.com/CRa5h7M3rJ

— Eileen Frere (@abc7eileen) October 11, 2019

Scary as fast moving flames driven by strong #winds sweep through communities overnight. This is driving down Sesnon after fire jumped the road. #GranadaHills #PorterRanch @abc7 #abc7eyewitness pic.twitter.com/o9loblhxse

— Eileen Frere (@abc7eileen) October 11, 2019

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