Sandy Fire in Simi Valley Expands, Forcing Evacuations and Threatening Structures
The Sandy Fire in Simi Valley, California, has rapidly expanded, scorching over 1,300 acres and prompting evacuation orders and warnings across Ventura and Los Angeles counties. The fire, which began in the Simi Valley area, has led to the closure of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library due to nearby road closures, although the library itself is not directly threatened. The Ventura County Fire Department reports that the fire is 0% contained, with approximately 550 firefighters battling the blaze. The fire's rapid spread is attributed to shifting winds, which have complicated containment efforts. Evacuation orders are in place for several zones, including Simi Valley 32 through 35, and temporary evacuation points have been established to assist displaced residents. Firefighting aircraft are actively deploying water and retardant to support ground crews.