A rapidly expanding wildfire broke out Monday morning in Southern California, forcing residents from their homes and destroying at least one house.
The blaze began shortly after 10 a.m. in Simi Valley, located in Ventura County approximately 30 miles northwest of Los Angeles.
By just before noon, the fire had consumed more than 180 acres, said Scott Dettorre, spokesperson for the Ventura County Fire Department.
Television news helicopters captured images showing at least one residence engulfed in flames. Fire officials have not released specific numbers on property damage. Several helicopters were observed making water drops on the burning area while thick gray smoke covered the surrounding community.
Evacuation orders were issued for residents living in Simi Valley’s southern section. The city is home to more than 125,000 people.
Emergency responders worked urgently to prevent the fire from advancing down hillsides into residential areas of Thousand Oaks.
The National Weather Service issued an advisory for the region warning of winds between 20 and 30 mph lasting until 3 p.m.
