Simi Valley wildfire expands, schools close amid evacuations
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A fast-moving wildfire known as the Sandy Fire in Simi Valley, California, expanded to more than 2,100 acres on Wednesday, with containment reaching 22 percent by evening, up from 15 percent in the morning. More than 17,000 residents remained under mandatory evacuation orders, with additional evacuation warnings affecting communities in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, including parts of West Hills and Chatsworth. The Simi Valley Unified School District closed all campuses through Friday, May 22, while the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum stayed shut for a fourth day. The fire began Monday, May 18, 2026, and its cause remains under investigation.
More context
Timeline
- May 18, 2026 Sandy Fire first reported
- May 18, 2026 Tractor strikes rock, sparks suspected
- May 18, 2026 Wind-driven fire spreads rapidly
- Earlier this week Reagan Library closes temporarily
- Wednesday morning Containment reported at fifteen percent
- Wednesday afternoon Schools ordered closed through Friday
- Wednesday evening Fire grows beyond 2,100 acres
- Wednesday evening Over 17,000 residents under evacuation
Why it matters
The Sandy Fire affects more than just Simi Valley. It's causing school closures and mandatory evacuations in multiple counties. If you live in Ventura or Los Angeles counties, stay alert. Check your local news for updates.
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
