Fast-moving Norte Fire burns homes in south Orange County amid Santa Ana winds

A fast-moving wildfire known as the Norte Fire tore through parts of south Orange County on Friday, driven by hot, dry Santa Ana winds, according to wsbt.com, kpic.com, and wgme.com. The fire began near San Clemente around 11:30 a.m. and pushed toward San Juan Capistrano, burning nearly 500 acres by evening.

At least six homes were burned or damaged as the fire spread aggressively into neighborhoods, with television footage showing homes on fire. More than 500 firefighters were engaged in battling the blaze, as reported by an Orange County Fire Authority spokesperson.

The fire remained zero percent contained by Friday evening, with officials issuing evacuation orders covering five zones in San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano. One firefighter suffered heat exhaustion, but no other injuries or deaths were reported.

The National Weather Service had issued a Red Flag warning for much of Los Angeles County due to powerful Santa Ana winds, high temperatures, and low humidity forecast through Saturday, which contributed to the fire's rapid spread.

Firefighters continue efforts to contain the Norte Fire as conditions remain challenging due to ongoing hot and dry winds.