New Delhi, May 19 -- A rapidly spreading brush fire broke out on Monday morning in Southern California, triggering evacuation orders and threatening residential neighborhoods in Ventura County.

The blaze ignited shortly after 10 a.m. in Simi Valley, located about 30 miles northwest of Los Angeles. According to Ventura County fire officials, the fire had scorched more than 180 acres by late morning as firefighters battled difficult terrain and fast-moving flames.

Officials confirmed that at least one home was damaged in the fire, though the full extent of structural losses remained unclear. Dramatic aerial footage broadcast by local television stations showed flames engulfing a residence while thick gray smoke spread across nearby commun...