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, January 22.

Dramatic footage by Kyle Monaghan from a hilltop shows a massive cloud of smoke towering from the blaze on Thursday.

The wildfire, fueled by high winds, began around 10:45 am, but within the first hour, the blaze had scorched more than 500 acres. By 12:30 pm, it had expanded to 3,407 acres, as reported by Cal Fire.

Officials said that by 1 pm, flames continued to race through the dry terrain.

Authorities urge residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders as crews work to bring the wildfire under control.

As of Thursday evening, the fire was 36 per cent contained.

This fire comes amid ongoing wildfires in Southern California, including the Palisades and Eaton fires.

As of Thursday, Cal Fire data showed the Palisades Fire was 75 per cent contained, burning more than 23,400 acres, and the Eaton Fire was 95 per cent contained, scorching over 14,000 acres.

Officials confirmed 28 deaths from the deadly wildfires, 11 from the Palisades Fire and 17 from the Eaton Fire.