A fast-moving brush fire broke out in Simi Valley, California, this morning and grew to nearly 200 acres within about an hour of being reported, prompting evacuation orders and warnings across multiple neighborhoods in the Ventura County community.
The blaze, named the Sandy Fire, was first reported around 10:15 a.m. near the 600 block of Sandy Drive, close to Sycamore Park. Crews arriving on scene described flames that were already covering at least an acre and spreading rapidly, pushed by dry, gusty winds that had placed much of Southern California under elevated fire weather conditions. At least one structure has burned as of this morning.
Who must evacuate and where to go
Evacuation orders, the most urgent level of emergency notification requiring immediate departure, have been issued for Simi Valley Zones 32-35. That area is described roughly as south of Royal Avenue, east of Madera Road, west of Edison Road and north of the Albertson Fire Road.
Evacuation warnings, which signal a potential threat and a need to prepare for possible departure, were issued for Zone 31 in Simi Valley, covering an area roughly south of Madera Road, west of Lake Park Drive and east of the Bard Reservoir. Evacuation warnings have also been issued for Zones 6 and 7 in the nearby Thousand Oaks area.
A temporary evacuation point has been established at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park, located at 505 Los Angeles Avenue in Simi Valley. Residents can monitor live evacuation zone maps and updates at vcemergency.com.
No injuries have been officially reported.
Resources on the ground
The Ventura County Fire Department called for a second alarm response, dispatching engines, hand crews, dozers and multiple aircraft, including water-dropping helicopters, to fight the fire. Tankers and mutual aid from neighboring agencies were also requested. Personnel have been actively working to protect structures in and around the fire’s path.
An area to the north of the fire was under a wind advisory through 3 p.m.
Southern California fire conditions
The Sandy Fire is the latest in a period of elevated fire activity across the region. Dry conditions, high winds and low humidity had already placed crews on alert heading into the week. Two wildfires burned separately in the Antelope Valley over the weekend before being fully contained.
This is a developing story. Residents in the affected areas are encouraged to follow official guidance and monitor vcemergency.com for updated evacuation information.
SOIURCES: NBC Los Angeles, Ventura County Star