The Sandy Fire continues its relentless advance across Ventura County, sparking concerns that increasing winds could exacerbate the situation.
In a 6 a.m. update on Tuesday, Cal Fire reported that firefighters had made “significant progress” overnight, with the blaze showing “very little” growth during those hours.
“Throughout the night, helicopters were able to carry out water-dropping operations, benefitting from more favorable weather conditions and cooler temperatures,” stated the update.
Fire crews are now bracing for the expected rise in winds later this morning. They are strategically positioned around the fire to swiftly tackle any potential flare-ups, aiming to curb further expansion of the blaze.
The fire has already devoured approximately 1,385 acres, with containment efforts still at 0% as of Tuesday morning.
In response to the advancing flames, evacuation orders have been issued for areas including Simi Valley, Bell Canyon, and Santa Susana. Meanwhile, residents of Calabasas, Hidden Hills, and Agoura Hills are under an evacuation warning, urging them to stay prepared.
Residents of Los Angeles and San Fernando Valley should expect to see impacts from the fire, a Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson said.
“Residents across the San Fernando Valley, including West Hills and Chatsworth, should expect to see and smell smoke this evening. Winds are carrying smoke from the Sandy Fire into Los Angeles, and air quality may be impacted. If you are sensitive to smoke or have respiratory conditions, stay indoors, keep windows closed, and limit outdoor activity,” spokesperson Jamie Stewart said.
A total of 750 firefighters were battling the blaze, and officials were optimistic it would be contained.
“We have made tremendous progress on this fire,” Ventura County Fire Department spokesperson Andrew Dowd told KTLA. “Zero percent containment, don’t let that number fool you. A lot of great work has been done.”
No injuries had been reported but at least one home was destroyed in the blaze. The fire is currently threatening hundreds of homes in the lower Simi Valley.
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office said late Monday that the state had received federal assistance from FEMA to fight the fire.
“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,” he said. “We are deeply grateful to the crews on the front lines and urge Californians in impacted areas to follow guidance from local officials.”
