One year ago, Southern California experienced one of the most devastating wildfire disasters in American history.

Over the days and weeks that followed, 14 fires erupted in and around L.A. County. Families lost loved ones. Entire neighborhoods were erased. More than 200,000 people were displaced, and tens of thousands of Californians are still struggling to return home.

Here in the Santa Clarita Valley, the massive and fast-moving Hughes fire threatened Castaic, forcing thousands to evacuate.

The extraordinary work of our firefighters and first responders prevented further destruction in our community. Through quick detection, coordination across agencies, and tireless work under dangerous conditions, they contained these fires and saved lives.

Last year, I met with the Angeles National Forest firefighters who first spotted the Hughes Fire and worked around the clock to ensure it didn’t spread. Thanks to them and many more, we avoided disaster for Castaic. I’ve stayed in contact with........

© Santa Clarita Valley Signal