Simi Valley wildfire: Evacuations lifted after Sharp Fire threatens homes

SIMI VALLEY, Calif. (KABC) — Evacuation orders have been lifted after a brush fire threatened homes and spread to more than 100 acres in Simi Valley.

The fire broke out around 1:45 p.m. Wednesday in the hills near the 2800 block of Sharp Road, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.

An evacuation order was issued shortly afterward for homes along Ditch Road, but residents were allowed to return to the neighborhood that evening, when Simi Valley police said the fire was under control.

“The Ventura County Fire Department will be mopping up hot spots and monitoring the area throughout the night,” police said in a statement. “All roads are now open and residents who were asked to evacuate can now return to their residences.”

Large plumes of smoke billowed over the surrounding area as the fire quickly grew to more than 40 acres in less than two hours after it started. The blaze, called the Sharp Fire, was estimated at 133 acres as of 5:40 p.m.

A total of 200 firefighters battled the blaze, while air tankers dropped Phos-Chek retardant and helicopters focused on extinguishing hot spots, according to the fire department.

“Fire companies are moving thousands of feet of hose to extend attack lines, while manual crews are building containment lines with hand tools. Bulldozers are also being used to build containment lines,” the fire department said on X.

A firefighter was taken to the hospital with a minor heat injury. The firefighter is “doing very well and recovering at this point,” said Capt. Brian McGrath of the Ventura County Fire Department.

About 60 homes were evacuated and an evacuation center was established at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park.