Wildfire in Simi Valley triggers evacuations amid heat warning

About 200 Ventura County firefighters are battling a blaze in the hills of Simi Valley which has triggered the evacuation of residents in the area, according to county officials. 

The Sharp Fire started at 1:45 p.m. Wednesday and was initially estimated to be about 25 to 30 acres as it moved east Wednesday afternoon, according to VC Emergency. A little over two hours later, around 4:15 p.m., it had grown to about 75 acres and was still threatening structures in the area, according to the Ventura County Fire Department. 

The wildfire was reported amid an excessive heat warning that's in effect from 11 a.m. Wednesday through Monday for all of Ventura County except for coastal areas.  

Evacuations have been ordered for homes along Ditch Road.

Firefighters have been dropping fire retardant with helicopters to attack the blaze from the air while those on the ground have been working to contain it on multiple fronts, according county fire officials.

Just a day earlier, fire officials warned of increased wildfire risks with the coming season.

"Ventura County is now in fire season, and we strongly urge all members of our community to take proactive steps and maintain a high level of vigilance regarding fire safety," the county's fire department wrote on Facebook. "Given the alarming spike in wildfire activity in June alone, totaling 41 wildfires — a 255% increase in a two-week period — it is clear that the risk is significant."

A shelter for those who have been evacuated from their homes has been set up at Rancho Santa Susana Community Center, located at 5005 E. Los Angeles Avenue in Simi Valley, according to county officials. 

Residents can search through this live map to see where current evacuations are. Other information and ongoing updates for affected residents including road closures can be found here. 

Check back for updates on this developing story.