California, USA, October 17, 2026 — A fast-moving wildfire has damaged or destroyed at least six homes in Southern California, forcing evacuations as strong Santa Ana winds, low humidity and unusually high temperatures fuel several fires across the region.
The Norte Fire began in the coastal city of San Clemente in Orange County and spread to nearby San Juan Capistrano as winds pushed the flames through residential areas. Television footage showed houses burning, with flames coming through rooftops and thick black smoke rising above neighbourhoods.
More than 500 firefighters were battling the blaze, which had expanded to nearly two square kilometres, according to Steve Concialdi, a captain and spokesperson for the Orange County Fire Authority. He said crews were doing everything possible to protect buildings.
Evacuation shelters were opened in both San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, while residents in threatened areas were urged to leave. Nine schools in San Juan Capistrano were closed on Friday, according to the Capistrano Unified School District.
The wildfire was among several blazes affecting Southern California amid hot, dry and windy conditions. The Bryson Fire near Malibu had eased considerably by Friday, with crews concentrating on containment and cleanup. The fire had prompted evacuation orders and warnings affecting more than 12,000 people in parts of the Santa Monica Mountains.
