Mandatory evacuations ordered in Creek Fire burn areas

SYLMAR, CA (FOX 11) - Residents living in the burn scar of the Creek Fire have until 6pm on Wednesday to evacuate their homes as a powerful storm approaches, bringing with it the risk of mud and debris flows.

LA County deputies went door to door In Kagel, Lopez, and Little Tujunga Canyons Tuesday evening to tell residents about the mandatory evacuations.

If they refused the order, they had to sign an affidavit saying they are staying on their own accord, and could face a misdemeanor charge.

"I have two squads of deputies consisting of approximately 26 personnel and 2 sergeants out there," said Captain Christopher Blasnek of LASD. "The dangers of staying behind is not only is there debris flow, but also boulders and rocks come off the mountainsides and block the roads, block the access from them leaving and block the access for us coming up."

Residents who live in Kagel Canyon told FOX 11 this was their 3rd time having to evacuate their homes since the Creek Fire.

"Yeah we have to leave so we packed everything we could and we stay at friends," said Michael Labai. "It's part of living in the canyon, we're used to it."

"I'm evacuating tomorrow morning so I'll probably just hang a note on my door that says gone," said Feeriel Yeahkle. "It's part of the business of living here you know, if you wanna live here you gotta expect things like that."