AP
Photos show wildfire fueled by high winds engulfing coastal homes in Southern California
A biker looks over a hillside burned by the Norte Fire from Patriot Hill Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, in San Juan Capistrano, Calif.
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Fire crews in Southern California are working to contain a wind-driven blaze that has charred hills and burned at least six large coastal homes. The fire prompted the evacuation of thousands of people. Hundreds of firefighters worked through the night on the blaze burning on the hills that straddle the coastal cities of San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente. The fast-moving Norte Fire sparked Friday amid hot, strong Santa Ana winds. It prompted the evacuation of about 16,000 residents. Some evacuation orders were lifted Saturday, but authorities said the majority remained in effect and urged people to stay away.