32K-Acre Powerhouse Fire Remains 60 Percent Contained

ANTELOPE VALLEY (CBSLA.com) — Firefighters are seeing improved conditions Tuesday as they continue to battle the 32,000-acre Powerhouse Fire in the Angeles National Forest, the National Weather Service said.

Forecasters predict weaker winds, cooler temperatures, and high humidity in addition to even calmer conditions as the week progresses.

The blaze, which is 60 percent contained, has destroyed six structures and damaged 15 others, according to authorities.

The 32,032-acre fire, which is currently threatening 275 structures, began Thursday and was fanned by triple-digit temperatures and strong winds. Over the weekend, it crossed the California Aqueduct and moved into the Antelope Valley.

Evacuation orders were lifted late Monday for about 2,800 residents of Lake Hughes and Lake Elizabeth.

Authorities estimate it has cost the state $8,707,139 to fight the fire.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced Monday that up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs will be reimbursed by the federal government.

More than 2,034 firefighters and 19 aircraft continued to battle the blaze Tuesday.

A shelter for small animals is still available at the L.A. County Department of Animal Care & Control, 5210 West Avenue I in Lancaster, and the Castaic Animal Shelter, located at 31044 N. Charlie Canyon Road.

Lancaster and Antelope Valley fairgrounds have also been used to house animals such as horses, donkeys, goats and exotic birds.

Three minor injuries have been reported since the fire began.

Full containment of the fire is not expected until June 10. Authorities are still investigating the cause of the blaze.