California Wildfires Rage, Destroying Homes Amidst Santa Ana Winds
Multiple blazes, including the fast-moving Norte Fire, are threatening communities across Southern California.
Evacuation orders have been issued in Southern California as a rapidly growing wildfire, dubbed the Norte Fire, has already destroyed six homes in the Los Angeles area. The blaze erupted Friday in Orange County and expanded to 465 acres by Friday evening.
One firefighter sustained heat exhaustion while battling the flames. Officials anticipate that fierce Santa Ana winds will continue through Saturday, increasing the risk of further wildfires. The US National Weather Service has placed several California counties under a red flag warning, citing critical fire conditions due to strong, gusty winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation.
The Norte Fire is one of 13 wildfires currently burning across the state, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Division 3 Fire Chief Mark Backoff stated Friday evening that six homes had been damaged or destroyed by the Norte Fire. "We continue to engage in the firefight, and have additional resources coming," Backoff said.
Footage shared online depicted flames engulfing homes in the communities of San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. Separately, the Bryson Fire in Malibu, located in Los Angeles County, has also prompted evacuation orders throughout the Santa Monica Mountains and has grown to 147 acres. More than 400 firefighters are engaged in efforts to control this blaze.