Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images) Monday, 10:30 a.m. PSTCal Fire data marked the Palisades Fire at 94 ... which broke out Wednesday north of Santa Clarita, has burned about 10,425 acres ...

With the Palisades and Eaton fires still not fully contained, a new Southern California blaze sparked up Wednesday north of Santa Clarita, burning more than 9,400 acres in a matter of hours, forcing evacuations by the thousands and shutting down sections of the 5 freeway.

Much-needed rain has begun to fall over Southern California, bringing relief to the drought-stricken region but also the threat of toxic runoff.

The Hughes Fire has now burned 8,096 acres in Los Angeles and Ventura counties since igniting late Wednesday morning near Castaic Lake, according to Cal Fire. As more than 400 firefighters responded to the scene, an air tanker and four helicopters attacked the blaze from the air, preventing it from jumping Interstate 5, officials said.

Coverage of the Hughes, Sepulveda and Laguna fires in Southern California during a fourth consecutive day of red flag fire weather warnings.

The Hughes fire, burning near Castaic Lake north of Santa Clarita, exploded to more than 10,000 acres of mostly brush in just a few hours. More than 50,000 people were under evacuation orders and warnings.

Rain brought much needed aid to the Los Angeles firefight, moving the fires surrounding the city closer to containment.

Recent rainfall and increased debris from fire zones have prompted Los Angeles County public health officials to issue an advisory and close several miles of coastline.

Palisades Fire ... Interstate 5, which runs the length of California, was closed between Bakersfield and Santa Clarita because of snow. The state's Department of Public Transportation told ...

Residents and first responders were on high alert for possible land movement in recent burn scar areas as a winter storm moves in.

Firefighters continue to battle fires across Southern California as the area prepares for a presidential visit Friday and rain in the weekend forecast.