More than 17,000 people were under evacuation orders in Southern California on Tuesday as the wind-driven Sandy Fire threatened suburban homes in the hills above Simi Valley, approximately 30 miles northwest of Los Angeles. The blaze has spread across more than 1,300 acres, consuming over two square miles of dry brush and destroying at least one home.
At least 750 firefighters have been deployed to combat the fire. While gusts topping 30 mph initially pushed the flames, crews were aided by calmer winds overnight. Despite this progress, fire officials reported zero containment as of Tuesday, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The Sandy Fire is part of a broader pattern of activity, as multiple counties in California have issued evacuation orders and warnings following the ignition of several new wildfires. Fire officials anticipate strong winds and increased fire activity in the region.
Additionally, crews are battling a 23-square-mile blaze on Santa Rosa Island off the Southern California coast. The fire forced the evacuation of 11 National Park Service employees and destroyed a cabin and an equipment shed. The island is a popular destination for hiking and camping and is home to spotted skunks, elephant seals, and island foxes.