Castaic, Los Angeles County, CA: Los Angeles County firefighters joined federal crews to battle the 100+ acre Route Fire in Castaic on Wednesday, Aug. 31.

The blaze broke out along northbound Interstate 5 north of Lake Hughes Road shortly after noon amid the beginning of a blistering heat wave with temperature easily exceeding the century mark across the southland.

The Route Fire, named after the Ridge Route area, quickly consumed five acres before leaping to 100 acres after 45 minutes.

With prevailing weather conditions keeping fuel moisture levels at record lows, the fire chewed starved dry brush as it straddled along the Golden State Freeway before making a push toward homes at The Old Road’s northern terminus in Castaic.

It was reported that seven firefighters have succumbed to heat related injuries while battling the flames in sweltering temperature. Five of the seven firefighters have been transported to the nearest area hospital, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department in an update on Twitter.

The fire has now progressed to 250 acres. Evacuations have been ordered for Paradise Mobile Home Park, reported the department at 4:06 p.m.

Updates on the fire will be added to this report.

The cause of the fire is unknown at this time.

Video: Austin Dave, Photojournalist / KNN

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