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.

As the cleanup phase of recovery begins after the devastating fires in L.A. County, displaced residents grapple with new uncertainty surrounding the cost and timeline for rebuilding.

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

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.

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

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 ...

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

As Santa Ana winds returned to Southern California, residents and first responders braced for another day of critical fire weather.

The Hughes Fire forced evacuations in Santa Clarita, California. At least 31,000 residents were ordered to evacuate as the blaze grew to over 10,000 acres on Wednesday,2. Footage captured by Liana Herrera shows a cloud of smoke rising from the flames.

The Hughes Fire sent thick grey smoke billowing over homes in Santa Clarita, California. At least 31,000 residents were ordered to evacuate due to the rapid spread of the blaze on Wednesday afternoon,