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Rancho Fire in Laguna Beach burns near hillside homes
The Rancho Fire was mapped at about three acres Monday afternoon.
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Cal Fire
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The Rancho Fire started Monday afternoon in Orange County, burning near homes in the Bluebird Canyon area of Laguna Beach. A live feed from Alert California showed smoke had dissipated by about 6 p.m.
By 7:30 p.m. all evacuation orders and warnings were lifted, according to the Laguna Beach city website. Orders were initially in place for La Mirada Street, Katella Street, Summit Drive and Baja Street. An evacuation warning had been in place for areas south of Del Mar Avenue, according to the city.
Earlier in the day
People who evacuated were able to go to the Laguna Beach Community and Susi Q Center at 380 3rd St., the city said.
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Road access heading uphill from Pacific Coast Highway was restricted at Nyes Place, Bluebird Canyon/Summit Drive and Alta Vista Way/Glenneyre as of about 6 p.m.
About the fire
Cal Fire mapped the Rancho Fire at about 3 acres on Monday afternoon.
The fire started about 2:15 p.m., and as many as five helicopters and one airplane were involved in the firefight. Laguna Beach Mayor Alex Rounaghi said the likely cause is fireworks. The city reported some power outages, with service expected to be restored by 6:30 p.m.
The area's fire history
In October 1993, the Laguna Fire destroyed hundreds of homes and burned in the area near where the Rancho Fire was burning Monday. The fire more than 30 years ago was fueled by strong Santa Ana winds; but Monday's weather was calm, with light winds and a high of 70 degrees forecast for the day.
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Fire resources and tips
Check out LAist's wildfire recovery guide
If you have to evacuate:
- Why fire officials don't want you to stay and defend your home
- How to get packed up
- How to leave your house
- What evacuation terms mean and how to sign up for alerts
Navigating fire conditions:
- How to drive in high winds and fire danger
- How to prep for power outages
- How to navigate poor air quality
How to help yourself and others:
- Resources for fire victims, evacuees and first responders
- If you want to help fire victims, resist the urge to volunteer
- How to help find lost pets
How to start the recovery process:
- What to do — and not do — when you get home after a wildfire
- How to make an insurance claim
- How to safely clean up wildfire ash
What to do for your kids:
- How to talk to children about wildfires and losing a home
- What parents should know about wildfire air quality
Prepare for the next disaster:
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