California wildfire: Sandy Fire spreads rapidly in Simi Valley hills, threatens residential areas

Thousands of residents were ordered to evacuate Monday (May 18) as a fast-moving, wind-driven wildfire threatened homes in suburban Southern California. The Sandy Fire was reported around 10 a.m. in the hills above Simi Valley, about 30 miles (48 km) northwest of Los Angeles.

By mid-afternoon, the fire had consumed more than 500 acres (200 hectares) of dry brush and damaged at least one home, according to the Ventura County Fire Department, the AP reported.

A gusty wind promotes rapid spread

Officials said morning winds gusting over 30 mph (48 km/h) drove the flames through dry vegetation, although conditions began to ease later in the day. Ventura County fire spokesman Scott Dettorre said the situation could improve overnight.

“As the sun goes down, the wind calms down even more,” Dettorre said.

A mass evacuation was ordered across Simi Valley

Evacuation orders and warnings were issued for several neighborhoods in Simi Valley, a city of more than 125,000. Thick smoke enveloped the area as helicopters made repeated water drops. Authorities have not confirmed the total number of evacuees.

The Ronald Reagan Library was forced to close

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, located on a nearby hillside, announced it was closed for the day because of the advancing fire threat.

The cause of the fire is under investigation

Officials said the cause of the Sandy Fire remains under investigation as crews continue to work to contain the flames and protect residential areas.

Separate fires are burning on Santa Rosa Island

Meanwhile, firefighters are also battling a separate 15-square-mile (39 km2) fire on Santa Rosa Island, part of California’s Channel Islands. The fire destroyed a cabin and equipment shed and forced the evacuation of 11 National Park Service employees.

Endangered animals and protected habitats

Santa Rosa Island, a popular camping and hiking destination, is home to species such as island foxes, spotted skunks and elephant seals, raising concerns about ecological damage as a result of the ongoing fire.