Homes burned in California as wildfires rage
News Blend 360
Sat, October 18, 2026 at 3:14 AM
At least six costly properties have been consumed by rapidly spreading wildfires along the southern coast of California, leading to the evacuation of thousands of residents.
The Orange County Fire Authority reported on X that the so-called Norte fire had burned approximately 465 acres (188 hectares) and that at least four homes were affected in the wealthy San Juan Capistrano area.
Thick black smoke rising from the hills was visible for miles as firefighters worked to control the swiftly advancing fire.
The agency stated that firefighters were "aggressively attacking the fire from ground and air" and repeatedly urged people to avoid the area.
Danger of fire spreading remains as thousands without power
The Norte fire began in the coastal city of San Clemente and was driven by wind into San Juan Capistrano.
The National Weather Service cautioned about a "high risk for large fires and rapid fire growth," particularly over Los Angeles and Ventura counties, as well as in the mountains and foothills of San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties.
The wildfires have been exacerbated by strong Santa Ana winds, low humidity, and unusually high temperatures.
Meteorologists reported wind gusts reaching 50-70 miles (80-110 kilometers) per hour in the mountains, while coastal and valley regions experienced gusts ranging from 35 to 55 miles per hour.
To minimize the risk of electrical sparks due to the strong winds, authorities have cut off the power supply, resulting in thousands of residents in the state being without electricity.
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