Authorities lifted most Norte Fire evacuation orders in San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano, California, on October 17 as containment reached 25%. The Orange County Fire Authority update published by CAL FIRE put the burned area at 570 acres, about 231 hectares, after six homes were damaged or destroyed.
The fire began in San Clemente on October 16 and spread toward San Juan Capistrano. AP reported that about 16,000 residents evacuated. Governor Gavin Newsom's office said strong Santa Ana winds, dry vegetation and high temperatures fueled the blaze, placing communities in southern Orange County at risk.
Crews worked overnight to attack the flames and reinforce containment lines, according to the incident update. Containment stood at 5% on Saturday morning before rising to 25% later in the day. AP reported that hundreds of firefighters joined the effort in the hills, where the fire reached residential properties.
The evening return-home announcement took effect at 6 p.m. local time on October 17, with specific restrictions remaining. Officials kept Via La Mirada closed to vehicle traffic north of Esperanza so emergency crews could work. The burned area also remained closed because it continued to present an active fire hazard.
California secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the governor's office said. The program enables responding local, state and tribal agencies to seek reimbursement for 75% of eligible suppression costs. The funding supports the firefighting response as crews work to protect lives and property.
The cause remained under investigation in the official incident record. Authorities said crews would continue increasing containment, while access restrictions covered the remaining hazardous areas. Residents returning after the evacuation were advised through CAL FIRE's guidance to remain alert for changing conditions and updated official instructions.
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