Southern California, May 19, 2026

Two large wildfires are burning in Southern California, forcing evacuations for approximately 29,000 residents in Ventura County as authorities warn of dangerous Santa Ana winds.

Fire Locations and Spread

One wildfire is currently active northwest of Los Angeles, near Simi Valley, and has already scorched approximately 5.5 square kilometers. Another blaze on Santa Rosa Island, off the coast of California, has consumed about 59 square kilometers. Both fires are spreading rapidly, with strong winds exacerbating conditions.

Firefighters are battling the flames amid forecasts of Santa Ana winds, which historically accelerate fire growth. Similar conditions contributed to the devastating Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire last year, which destroyed over 16,000 buildings and claimed 31 lives.