Thousands of residents were evacuated after fast-moving wildfires spread across Southern California, damaging homes and covering Simi Valley in smoke.
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1 / 8A fast-moving wildfire in Southern California forced thousands of people to evacuate on Monday as strong winds pushed flames toward residential areas near Simi Valley. According to the Associated Press, the Sandy Fire broke out around 10 am in the hills above the city, located about 30 miles northwest of Los Angeles. (Image: AP)
2 / 8Sandy Fire spreads quickly in dry conditions | The wildfire grew rapidly through dry brushland and had burned more than 500 acres by mid-afternoon, officials from the Ventura County Fire Department said. Fire crews also confirmed that at least one home was damaged as teams worked to stop the flames from spreading toward residential areas. (Image: AP)
3 / 8Strong winds made firefighting difficult | Morning wind gusts crossed 30 mph, helping the flames move quickly across the hillsides. Fire department spokesperson Scott Dettorre said the winds were expected to calm further after sunset, which could help firefighters gain better control of the blaze. (Image: AP)
4 / 8Thousands evacuated as smoke covers Simi Valley | Evacuation orders and warnings were issued across several neighbourhoods in Simi Valley, a city with more than 125,000 residents. Thick smoke covered parts of the city while helicopters carried out repeated water drops over the fire zone. Officials did not immediately confirm how many people were asked to leave their homes. (Image: AP)
5 / 8Reagan library closes due to wildfire threat | The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, located on a nearby hillside, remained closed for the day because of the wildfire threat. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire. (Image: Reuters)
6 / 8Another wildfire burns on Santa Rosa Island | Firefighters were also battling a second major wildfire on Santa Rosa Island, the second-largest of the Channel Islands off the Southern California coast. The blaze spread across nearly 15 square miles and damaged structures on the island. (Image: AP)
7 / 8National Park Service staff evacuated | The island fire destroyed a cabin and an equipment shed, while 11 employees of the National Park Service were evacuated from the area as a safety measure. (Image: AP)
8 / 8Wildlife habitat faces danger from flames | Santa Rosa Island is known for camping, hiking and rare wildlife habitats. The island is home to species such as island foxes, spotted skunks and elephant seals, raising concerns about the possible impact of the wildfire on local wildlife and the surrounding ecosystem. (Image: AP)
