The key facts

  • The Norte fire in San Clemente grew from 10 to 50 acres in roughly 30 minutes
  • Evacuations were ordered in two zones of San Clemente and three zones of San Juan Capistrano
  • The Henderson fire (1,404 acres) and the Bryson fire (200 acres) are 0% contained

Evacuations in Orange County

On Friday, U.S. authorities ordered mandatory evacuations for parts of Orange County in California due to a rapidly spreading fire threatening structures. According to CAL FIRE, mandatory evacuations are in effect in five zones: two in San Clemente and three in San Juan Capistrano.

The Norte Fire

The fire, named Norte, started at 12:01 local time in San Clemente. According to CAL FIRE, it grew from 10 acres to 50 acres (about 20 hectares) in roughly 30 minutes. The agency reported that structures are threatened and that the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Other Fires in Southern California

According to CAL FIRE, two other fires in Southern California remain uncontained. The Henderson fire in San Diego County has burned 1,404 acres (568 hectares) and is 0% contained. The Bryson fire in Los Angeles County has spread to 200 acres (81 hectares) and is also 0% contained.