Coastal homes burn as hot winds fuel California fires

A fast-moving fire fueled by high winds tore through at least six coastal homes in Southern California on Friday, prompting thousands to evacuate and leaving a trail of black smoke visible from miles away. The blaze, which engulfed properties in San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente in Orange County, prompted firefighters to douse the burning homes.

Some residents proactively sprayed water on their properties before heeding evacuation orders. Two firefighters were hospitalized with heat-related injuries. The origin of the fire remains unknown. Mayor Rick Loeffler of San Clemente warned that had the winds been stronger or moved in a different direction, the situation could have been far worse.

Councilmember Howard Hart of San Juan Capistrano recounted how he and his wife took preventive measures by dousing their roof with water and relocating propane tanks before evacuating with a "to-go bag." Laura Hart, who has lived in the area for over five decades, has never had to evacuate due to fire.