Traffic backs up as residents evacuate ahead of the Kenneth Fire on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025 in Calabasas, California. Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

A new Los Angeles County wildfire ignited and exploded in size in West Hills near homes in the Calabasas and Hidden Hills areas, triggering more mandatory evacuation orders on Thursday.

The big picture: The Kenneth Fire grew within three hours from an estimated 50 to 960 acres as it spread into Ventura County, prompting the NFL to move the L.A. Rams’ wild-card playoff game against the Minnesota Vikings to Arizona.

Threat level: “Fanned by strong Santa Ana winds, the fire threatens nearby communities and infrastructure, prompting swift evacuation orders,” per a Cal Fire status update.

• “Firefighters from Los Angeles and Ventura counties are actively engaged in containment efforts, deploying both ground crews and aerial resources,” it added.
• “The challenging terrain and persistent winds complicate suppression activities, necessitating heightened vigilance from residents and adherence to directives from local authorities.”

Editor’s note: This a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.