LAGUNA NIGUEL, Calif.—A wildfire swept through Aliso Wood Canyon on May 11, burning down multimillion-dollar homes on the hillside overlooking the ocean between Laguna Niguel and Laguna Beach.
The Coastal Fire was reported at 2:44 p.m., Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Sean Doran said. The fire originated near the South Orange County Wastewater Authority’s Coastal Treatment Plant, which handles sewage for the Laguna Beach area, said Orange County sheriff’s Sgt. Scott Steinle.
Crews on scene estimated the size at about 200 acres by 6:15 p.m.
The flames spread quickly as they tore through thick brush on the hillside, aided by ocean winds that sparked spot fires ahead of the main blaze. The fire pushed its way uphill, advancing on Aliso Summit Trail and into the neighboring multimillion-dollar estates.
At least a dozen homes were seen burning as the flames crested a hilltop and advanced into an exclusive neighborhood, swallowing homes along La Vue and Coronado Pointe near the Aliso Summit Trail. Multiple homes were completely destroyed by the blaze.
There were no immediate reports of injuries as of 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
The fire advanced even as fixed-wing planes dropped fire retardant on the hillside in hopes of slowing the advance of the flames. Several water-dropping helicopters were also being employed in the firefight.
Evacuations were ordered in the Coronado Pointe and Pacific Island Drive areas, while voluntary evacuation orders were issued in the Balboa Nyes and Moulton Meadows neighborhoods in Laguna Beach. Students taking part in after-school activities at Laguna Beach High School were also evacuated, according to the school district.
Deputies were asking residents on San Simeon, Sierra Vista, Alta Terra, Nucella, Serana, Avante, Tanarron, Terracina, Islands Avenue, Capri Court, Sunrise Lane, Chapala Court, Arelu Court, and Anamonte to evacuate. An evacuation center was established at the Laguna Niguel Community Center at 28751 Crown Valley Parkway, Steinle said.
