Over 17,000 people in Southern California are under evacuation orders as the wind-driven Sandy Fire, reported Monday in the hills above Simi Valley, threatens suburban homes 30 miles northwest of Los Angeles.
Simi Valley, situated north-west of Los Angeles, has a population of more than 125,000 people.
By Tuesday morning, the blaze had consumed over two square miles of dry brush and destroyed at least one home, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.
While initial gusts of Santa Anas topped 30 mph, calmer overnight winds aided firefighters and they managed to get the fire 5% contained.
California fire officials said on Tuesday morning that 750 firefighters were being supported by "night-flying water dropping helicopters" to target hotspots.
Department spokesperson Andrew Dowd stated, "We've made a lot of progress against this fire with those improved weather conditions," expressing hope for further gains before winds intensify. The fire remains at zero containment, with its cause under investigation.
Evacuation orders and warnings persist for several Simi Valley neighborhoods. Meanwhile, a separate 23-square-mile blaze on Santa Rosa Island, off the Southern California coast, destroyed a cabin and equipment shed, evacuating 11 National Park Service employees. The island, a popular destination, is home to unique wildlife including island foxes and elephant seals.
“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. We are deeply grateful to the crews on the front lines and urge Californians in impacted areas to follow guidance from local officials,” California Gov. Gavin Newsom said in a press release.
A Simi Valley Police Chief told NBC LA that about 30 minutes before, at about 10:17 a.m., a resident called and reported accidentally hitting a rock with their tractor, which authorities believe started the blaze.
The Ventura County Fire Department said the cause is still under investigation.
