The simi valley fire expanded to 720 acres, Ventura County Fire Department said, and the blaze continues to threaten structures. Evacuation orders and warnings remain in place as crews work to protect homes and other properties in the area.
Approximately 500 firefighters are assigned to the incident, Ventura County Fire Department said, and firefighting aircraft have been dropping retardant and water to support ground crews. Ground personnel and air resources continue coordinated containment efforts amid visible hot spots.
Earlier reports from Ventura County Fire estimated the blaze at 500 acres before it increased to 720 acres. Aircraft observed hot spots from AIR7, and crews kept pressure on active areas to limit further growth while protecting at-risk structures.
Andy Van Sciver of Ventura County Fire said crews expect weather to shift in their favor, stating, "We are still anticipating a change in the weather to our advantage." He also said, "We're going to be here for some time," signaling prolonged operations.
Fire managers continued to emphasize structure protection while monitoring fuel pockets and containment lines. Aircraft and hand crews focused on areas where heat and wind could spread flames, and officials warned residents to heed evacuation notices.
Closures And Investigation
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library closed because of the wildfire and related road closures, the library said, and its chief of staff confirmed the closure was due to limited access rather than the fire directly threatening the facility.
Simi Valley police told Eyewitness News that officials received a call reporting a tractor striking a rock while clearing brush, which may have sparked the blaze. Police said investigators cannot yet confirm that account as the fire's origin, but they consider it a possibility.
Authorities continue to balance suppression work with public safety measures, and investigators are examining the reported tractor incident while crews maintain containment efforts and protect threatened structures.
