Brush fires erupt amid red flag warnings, strong winds across Los Angeles area; power shutoffs underway
California Gov. Gavin Newsom announced FEMA approved a Fire Management Assistance Grant to help fight the Norte Fire in Orange County, which ignited Friday near San Clemente/San Juan Capistrano. Driven by Santa Ana winds, dry vegetation and heat, the blaze has burned about 465 acres and threatens 16,000 people, prompting evacuation orders and warnings for 6,000 homes. Newsom said the federal aid ensures firefighters have critical resources. The grant reimburses 75% of eligible suppression costs for local, state and tribal agencies. Southern California is under critical fire-weather conditions.
