More than 17,000 people have been ordered to evacuate as the Sandy Fire, a fast-moving wildfire, threatens suburban homes near Simi Valley, about 30 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The blaze was reported on Monday and has been driven by strong Santa Ana winds.
By Tuesday morning, the fire had scorched over two square miles of dry brush and destroyed at least one home, according to the Ventura County Fire Department. Calmer overnight winds helped firefighters achieve 5% containment, with 750 personnel supported by night-flying water-dropping helicopters targeting hotspots.
“We’ve made a lot of progress against this fire with those improved weather conditions,” said department spokesperson Andrew Dowd, expressing hope for further gains before winds intensify. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, though a Simi Valley Police Chief told NBC LA that a resident reported accidentally hitting a rock with a tractor, which may have sparked the blaze.
Evacuation orders and warnings remain in place for several Simi Valley neighbourhoods. Meanwhile, a separate 23-square-mile fire on Santa Rosa Island, off the Southern California coast, destroyed a cabin and equipment shed, forcing the evacuation of 11 National Park Service employees. The island is home to unique wildlife, including island foxes and elephant seals.
California Governor Gavin Newsom said in a statement: “California is mobilizing resources to support Ventura County communities threatened by the Sandy Fire. This activation will ensure responders have the support needed to continue protecting lives and homes as dangerous fire conditions persist.” He urged residents in affected areas to follow guidance from local officials.
