Thousands under evacuation orders in southern California as wildfire threatens homes | California
More than 17,000 people were under evacuation orders in Southern California on Tuesday as fire threatened suburban homes.
The wind-driven Sandy fire was reported Monday in the hills above Simi Valley, about 30 miles (48km) northwest of Los Angeles.
As of Tuesday morning, more than 2 square miles of dry brush had been consumed and at least one home had been destroyed, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.
The flames were initially pushed by winds in excess of 30 mph, but firefighters were helped by calmer winds overnight, said Andrew Dowd, a department spokesman.
“We have made a lot of progress against this fire thanks to improving weather conditions,” Dowd said. The crew said they hope to make more progress before winds pick up again.
According to the statement, approximately 750 firefighters, as well as helicopters and air tankers, were assigned to the fire as of Tuesday. Ventura County Star. The fire destroyed at least one house.
By noon Tuesday, 5% of the fire was under control. The reason is being investigated.
Evacuation orders and warnings were still in effect for many neighborhoods in Simi Valley, home to more than 125,000 people.
Los Angeles officials are monitoring the fire but are waiting for firefighters in Ventura County to stop the fire from advancing.
“While the Sandy Fire is in Ventura County, the Los Angeles Fire Department continues to monitor the situation closely and has deployed resources on the ground, including strike teams, a hand team and helicopters, to assist local crews in firefighting efforts,” Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said in a statement. he said. “At this time, we do not expect the wildfire to reach the city of Los Angeles.”
Meanwhile, firefighters were battling a 23-square-mile blaze on Santa Rosa Island off the coast of southern California. The fire destroyed a cabin and an equipment shed and forced the evacuation of 11 National Park Service employees.
A popular spot for camping and hiking, Santa Rosa is home to island foxes, spotted skunks, and seals. The island is home to six plants that grow only there.
“Rare plants are among the ecological resources for which Santa Rosa Island is renowned,” fire dispatcher Sierra Frisbie wrote in an email. “As part of the incident management team, Resource Advisors assist firefighters by providing guidance on how to protect these sensitive areas whenever possible during operations.”
The Santa Rosa fire appeared to have started after a stricken sailor fired at least two flares to attract the attention of passing boats. He was rescued uninjured after spending the night on the island, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. The National Park Service said the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
