Fort Fire Burns Up to 175 Acres Near I-5

The Fort Fire erupted late Wednesday night near Lebec in Kern County, burning between 133 and 175 acres along Interstate 5 near Fort Tejon Road and reaching about 5% containment by Thursday morning. Evacuation warnings are in effect for Digier Canyon and Zone KRN-535, with residents advised to be ready to leave if conditions worsen. Firefighting efforts include hand crews and helicopters, and at least one southbound lane of the 5 Freeway has been closed, causing traffic delays through the Grapevine area. The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and no injuries have been reported so far. Meanwhile, firefighters are also dealing with the nearby Frazier Fire, which is mostly contained. Authorities urge drivers to use caution in the affected areas.