ENVIRONMENT

Simi Valley brush fire spreads, prompts evacuations Monday

PUBLISHED May 18, 2026, 4:13 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 100%

Sources: 11

Los Angeles — A fast-growing brush fire ignited Monday morning in Simi Valley, Ventura County, just after 10 a.m., and had spread to more than 180 acres by shortly before noon, according to Ventura County Fire Department spokesperson Scott Dettorre; aerial footage showed at least one home on fire and heavy smoke over neighborhoods. Crews conducted multiple helicopter water drops and issued evacuation orders for parts of southern Simi Valley as firefighters scrambled to keep flames from moving down slopes toward Thousand Oaks; the National Weather Service issued an advisory warning of 20–30 mph winds through 3 p.m., complicating efforts and prompting continued on-scene operations.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Just after 10 a.m. Monday — fire reported in Simi Valley.
Shortly before noon Monday — fire grew to over 180 acres.
Midday Monday — aerial footage showed at least one home on fire; helicopters began water drops.
Midday Monday — evacuation orders issued for parts of southern Simi Valley.
Through 3 p.m. Monday — National Weather Service issued 20–30 mph wind advisory.

News Intelligence

This brush fire in Simi Valley could affect your safety and property. If you live in Ventura County, stay alert for evacuation orders. Even if you're not in the immediate area, smoke could impact air quality. Check local news for updates.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11

Who Benefited

Local firefighting agencies and emergency response teams mobilized resources, secured air and ground assets, and exercised emergency procedures during the Simi Valley brush fire response.

Who Impacted

Residents of southern Simi Valley and nearby Thousand Oaks experienced evacuations, property damage to at least one home, smoke exposure, and disruption to daily life on Monday.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 11
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Local firefighting agencies and emergency response teams mobilized resources, secured air and ground assets, and exercised emergency procedures during the Simi Valley brush fire response.

Who Impacted

Residents of southern Simi Valley and nearby Thousand Oaks experienced evacuations, property damage to at least one home, smoke exposure, and disruption to daily life on Monday.