SIMI VALLEY, Calif. — Firefighters working the Sandy Fire reported slower fire activity overnight as they continued building and reinforcing control lines around the 1,698‑acre blaze, according to updated information from CAL FIRE and the Ventura County Fire Department. Containment remains at 5 percent.
The fire, which began Monday near Sandy Avenue, has prompted a large multi‑agency response, including ground crews, hand crews, bulldozers, and aircraft conducting water and retardant drops. Officials said the combination of cooler nighttime temperatures and coordinated air support helped limit additional spread heading into Tuesday night.
At least one home on Trickling Brook Court has been confirmed destroyed, along with several vehicles on the property. No injuries have been reported.
Evacuation orders remain active for several Ventura County zones, including BELL‑01 through BELL‑05, BURR‑01, CHES‑01, MEIC‑01, SASU‑01, SASHU‑02, and Simi Valley zones 32A, 33A, 34, and 35. Evacuation warnings extend into Los Angeles County, covering areas of Agoura Hills, Calabasas, Hidden Hills, Chatsworth, and West Hills.
A temporary evacuation point continues to operate at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park. Small animals are being accepted at the Simi Valley Animal Shelter, while large animals are being sheltered at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.
The Simi Valley Unified School District closed all campuses Tuesday due to fire activity and smoke conditions. The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a smoke advisory for parts of Los Angeles County, urging residents to limit outdoor exposure. N95 masks were distributed at the Rancho Simi Recreation Center through Tuesday evening.
Fire officials said winds remain the primary concern, with the potential for flare‑ups in steep terrain. The cause of the fire is under investigation.