A fast-growing brush fire in Simi Valley, California, northwest of Los Angeles, has expanded over 720 acres Monday with 0% containment as of 2 p.m., Cal Fire reported.
The fire is ”spreading dangerously fast and threatens structures as well as infrastructure,” authorities said.
Simi Valley police told Eyewitness News that someone called the department to report they struck a rock while clearing brush with a tractor, which ignited a fire. Police have not confirmed this was the cause, but said it may be a possibility.
It is believed that high wind is contributing to the rapid spread of the blaze, with gusts up to 19 mph. Winds are continually weakening as the evening goes on.
In total, 500 firefighters were on scene for the fire, supported by air tankers and helicopters, according to media reports.
More than 20,000 people are under mandatory evacuation as of noon, The New York Times estimates.
Students at some local elementary schools were evacuated by bus to Simi Valley High School, according to the Simi Valley Unified School District. Many students had already been picked up by their families.
“Student safety is our top priority. At this time, all students are safe,” the district posted on Facebook.
Other schools have canceled afternoon classes and activities allowing students to leave early. Students remaining at the school were being housed until they can be safely picked up.
No human casualties have been reported. At least one home and several vehicles were seen burning.
The blaze, named the Sandy fire, is one of 1,436 ongoing wildfires in California, according to Cal Fire.
