US: Homes burned in California as wildfires rage

At least six high-end homes have been destroyed by a rapidly spreading wildfire in southern California, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate their homes. The Orange County Fire Authority reported that the Norte fire has burned approximately 465 acres, causing damage to four properties in the upscale community of San Juan Capistrano.

Thick black smoke rose from the surrounding hills as firefighters battled the fast-moving blaze using ground and aerial resources, urging the public to stay clear of the affected areas. The fire began in San Clemente and was driven by strong winds towards San Juan Capistrano. The National Weather Service issued a warning of high risk for large fires and rapid growth, particularly in Los Angeles, Ventura, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara counties, as well as the mountains and foothills.

Unseasonably high temperatures, low humidity, and intense Santa Ana winds have exacerbated the situation, with wind gusts reaching up to 50-70 miles per hour in the mountains and 35-55 miles per hour in coastal and valley regions. In an effort to minimize the risk of electrical sparks from the strong winds, power has been disconnected, leaving many thousands without electricity in the state.