Thousands under evacuation orders in southern California as wildfire threatens homes
Summary
More than 17,000 people in southern California were told to evacuate because of the Sandy fire, which is burning near Simi Valley. Firefighters have slowed the fire’s spread, but it has destroyed at least one home. Another wildfire on Santa Rosa Island has also caused evacuations and damage to buildings.Key Facts
- The Sandy fire started Monday near Simi Valley, about 30 miles northwest of Los Angeles.
- The fire burned over 2 square miles of dry brush and destroyed at least one home.
- Gusty winds helped spread the fire, but calmer weather helped firefighters slow it down.
- About 750 firefighters, helicopters, and air tankers are working to control the Sandy fire.
- This fire is about 5% contained as of Tuesday midday; the cause is still under investigation.
- Evacuation orders remain for several neighborhoods in Simi Valley, which has 125,000 people.
- The Los Angeles Fire Department is assisting but does not expect the fire to reach the city.
- A separate 23-square-mile fire on Santa Rosa Island has burned a cabin, an equipment shed, and forced evacuation of 11 park workers.
- The Santa Rosa fire may have started after a rescued sailor fired flares to signal help; the National Park Service is investigating.
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