Last Monday, a stray spark on the Saddleback Mountain ranges led to a fire that would destroy over 100 homes. Workers who were originally hired to develop new equipment to prevent fires accidentally caused a spark from this heavy equipment. The fire started out with around 500 acres but expanded to more than 23,000 acres.

As result of the fire, Santa Margarita was forced to close school for two days, messing up the school schedule. Closed roads caused trouble and mild traffic for commuters around school and for residents around the area.

Evacuation issues have been issued to Coto de Caza, Dova Canyon, and Trabuco Highlands. Evacuation centers have been set up in Foothill Ranch, and animal centers have been set up in Anaheim and Los Alamitos.

As of September 16, the fire is 19% contained. With cooling weather and a light drizzle on Friday morning, hopefully the containment will increase. Officials estimate that the fire will be 100% contained by September 24.