The Max Fire burned 45 acres near Stevenson Ranch on Monday before crews stopped its forward progress and lifted evacuation orders for the STV-PICO zone around 7 p.m.
The brush fire was reported at about 4:20 p.m. near Magnolia Lane and Autumn Place, then quickly spread from a quarter acre to more than 30 acres as hot temperatures helped feed the blaze. Firefighters battled it from the air and on the ground, and the fire had threatened homes in the area.
By just before 6:30 p.m., crews had stopped the fire at 45 acres. Around 7 p.m., the evacuation order was lifted, along with other warnings, and residents were told they could return home while continuing to use caution because fire crews remained on scene.
The response brought together the Los Angeles County Fire Department and assistance from the LAFD, but one key question remains unanswered: what sparked the fire in the first place. For residents in Stevenson Ranch, the immediate danger eased Monday night, even as crews stayed behind to make sure the blaze did not flare back up.
