- Over 17,000 people in Southern California are under evacuation orders due to the wind-driven Sandy Fire, which was reported on Monday in the hills above Simi Valley.
- The blaze had consumed over two square miles of dry brush and destroyed at least one home by Tuesday morning. 750 firefighters, supported by night-flying water-dropping helicopters, have been deployed to combat the blaze.
- Despite overnight winds initially aiding efforts , the fire remains at zero containment as of Tuesday evening.
- California Governor Gavin Newsom has mobilised resources to support Ventura County communities, urging residents to follow guidance from local officials.
- The cause of the fire is under investigation, with authorities looking into a resident's report of accidentally hitting a rock with a tractor.
IN FULL
