Sandy Fire in Southern California's Simi Valley grows to more than 830 acres, prompts mandatory evacuations

More than 550 firefighters are battling a brush fire dubbed the Sandy Fire, which is burning in Simi Valley and prompted mandatory evacuations on Monday morning. 

The fire has grown to more than 830 acres with no containment and is burning in the area near Sandy Avenue, according to the Ventura County Fire Department. 

The Simi Valley Police Department says around 10:17 a.m., they received a report that an individual "hit a rock with a tractor" near the 2600 block of Rudolph Drive, which sparked the fire. 

Cal Fire officials said that "the fire is spreading dangerously fast and threatens structures as well as infrastructure. Multiple air and ground resources are en route and on order."

Sgt. Rick Morton said when people are clearing large pieces of property, oftentimes they strike something not seen to the naked eye, which may cause whatever they're clearing to catch on fire.  

Aerial footage of the fire showed clouds of thick smoke, several water-dropping helicopters and residents evacuating their homes. 

Andrew Dowd, the Public Information Officer for the Ventura County Fire Department, said they are in an aggressive firefight and are receiving additional ground and air resources from other agencies across Southern California. 

"Having the ability to drop up to a thousand gallons of water per drop, and a quick turnaround time from a lake nearby, has been instrumental," Dowd said.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said that city officials were "closely monitoring" the fire and that the Los Angeles Fire Department had deployed some resources to support Ventura County crews. 

CBS LA spoke to neighbors near where a home was destroyed on Trickling Brook Court. They said the family who lived there had been there for decades. Many thanked firefighters for their quick response.

"The first responders, they were here, they did the magic that they do," said Don Sullivan. "They've been doing a great job. I've been watching the drops; they are right on target."

Other neighbors sprang into action to help one another as they evacuated. Some had to leave with horses and other pets in tow. 

"It's a very tight-knit street, it's a very tight-knit community," said Kady Doody.

Evacuation orders and warnings 

The Ventura County Sheriff's Emergency Services issued mandatory evacuations for the SIMI-32, SIMI-32, SIMI-34 and SIMI-35 areas. Evacuation warnings have also been issued for SIMI-31, TOAK-06 and TOAK-07.

A temporary evacuation point has been established at the Rancho Santa Susana Community Park on 505 Los Angeles Avenue. 

Small animal shelter: Simi Valley Animal Shelter, 670 W Los Angeles AvenueSimi Valley, CA 93065

Large animal shelter: Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 E Harbor Blvd., Ventura, CA 93001

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library has been evacuated and will remain closed for the rest of the day. 

"As always, we are immensely thankful for the firefighters and first responders who protect our community," said a statement from a library spokesperson.

The Simi Valley Unified School District said the fire is burning near several of its schools. Students from the Crestview Elementary School and Mountain View Elementary School were evacuated to Simi Valley High School by bus. The district said they were not told to evacuate, but chose to do so and immediately notified students. 

Due to the current air quality conditions, students at other schools are sheltering in place inside classrooms, and all outdoor activities have been suspended. 

"District and school staff are actively monitoring the situation in close coordination with local emergency personnel," the school district said. "We are prepared to evacuate at a moment's notice if emergency officials determine that it is necessary."

School officials said there is "no need for parents or guardians to come to campus unless directed by the school or District."

Weather conditions in Simi Valley  

CBS LA Meteorologist Alex Biston said the offshore Santa Ana winds were expected to subside by the late afternoon. She added that the winds are causing dry conditions, which can contribute to the fire behavior. 

The National Weather Service said the gusty northeast Santa Ana winds will weaken overnight, but another round is expected to arrive early Tuesday morning and continue through the afternoon. 

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.