On October 16, a wildfire named Norte Fire broke out in the northern part of Orange County in the morning. Thanks to the swift action of the fire department, by evening, a total of 6 residential homes were damaged and 2 firefighters were injured. The firefighters stayed overnight at the scene to prevent any resurgence of embers.
Orange County Fire Department Chief T.J. McGovern expressed gratitude to all the collaborating partners, including the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the city of San Clemente, the city of San Juan Capistrano, as well as the assistance from Los Angeles County and City, Long Beach, San Bernardino County, Riverside County, and the State Fire Department.
Acknowledging the high temperatures and strong winds, McGovern stated that preparations were made 24 hours before the fire outbreak with deployment of aircraft, fire trucks, bulldozers, and other equipment. He emphasized the importance of rapid response when the fire alarm was received at 11:33 am, dispatching aerial and ground rescue forces promptly.
Fueled by strong winds in Santa Ana, the wildfire spread rapidly along the mountain range in a wave-like pattern, quickly expanding to 570 acres and threatening residential areas. McGovern reported, “6 residential homes were damaged with no residents injured, while 2 firefighters were injured and hospitalized. We have around 400 firefighters engaged in firefighting efforts, with hundreds more in the vicinity, currently at 0% containment.”
The Orange County Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office jointly coordinated the opening of 3 community centers and ordered evacuations in five zones across two cities, affecting nearly 16,000 residents in 4,600 households. The Santa Margarita Water District urged local residents to conserve water as a precautionary measure, with no issues reported regarding water supply for firefighting. McGovern appreciated the residents’ patient support and compliance with evacuation orders, extending gratitude to frontline emergency responders, elected officials, and community leaders.
Orange County Fire Department’s Captain and Public Information Officer Steve Concialdi detailed the affected housing area, stating, “The wildfire originated in San Clemente and rapidly spread through vegetation to San Juan Capistrano, resulting in damage to 5 homes and one firefighter hospitalized.”
Firefighter Jordan recalled, “We rushed from another area around 12:30 pm, with flames spreading up the canyon slope, embers flying everywhere. At a protrusion on the hillside, the fire divided into multiple fronts. One side, with steep terrain and less flammable materials, had many moist, fire-resistant bushes against the adjacent house, slowing down the fire and saving the structure. However, on the other side, 4 homes were consumed by the flames, with one house’s roof and second floor fully engulfed. Many people habitually leave their second-floor windows slightly open, allowing embers to enter and resulting in complete destruction.”
From noon until nightfall, firefighters tirelessly worked on tirelessly, some foregoing meals. Jordan stated, “We’ll be here overnight, just in case.” As darkness fell and winds persisted, some areas on the hillside still emitted smoke, permeating the air with a harsh scent of burnt wood. Firefighters continued to dampen the extinguished structures to cool them down.
Orange County’s 5th District Supervisor Katrina Foley mentioned at the press conference, “Orange County remains committed to communication and early warning system development, establishing comprehensive rescue mechanisms such as Alert OC, which swiftly disseminates information to registered mobile phones; animal rescue teams are also on standby.”
San Clemente Mayor Rick Leffler expressed pride in the fire department and all support personnel, highlighting the efficient operation of the temporary shelter set up in the city center that not only accommodated residents – with an average of 4 to 5 staff members assisting each resident – but also welcomed 2 dogs, 1 cat, and 1 turtle. Local restaurants have reached out to offer meal support. Leffler added, “Benefiting from the experience of the large fires in the county, we initiated the ‘Goat Plan’ for vegetation clearance; at the ridge trailhead, we placed ‘Pumpkin’ water tanks for firefighters’ convenient refills.”
Assemblywoman Lori Davies from the 74th District urged residents to stay indoors and be prepared as winds intensified. She reassured that contact has been made with county, state, and federal authorities to ensure residents receive proper care. Residents who lost their homes were encouraged to reach out for assistance.
Congressman Mike Levin from the 49th District shared his experience, being in San Juan Capistrano and having to adjust plans due to the Henderson Fire from the previous day, with an area burned over 3,100 acres. Levin emphasized readiness to assist with federal support if necessary, as he recounted personal experiences of family members being impacted and appreciating the responsiveness of local authorities.