Striking Photos Capture Flames Of Laguna Fire Tuesday

LAGUNA NIGUEL, CA — Amid soaring temperatures and dry, dry heat, Orange County firefighters fought a fierce battle against a smoldering brush fire that ignited Tuesday afternoon.

The fire broke out shortly before 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in an area between South Peak and Niguel Road near Ridgeway Avenue, authorities said.

Initially reported at about 1 to 1 1/2 acres, the flames moved through heavy brush as crews worked to douse the flames from the air and ground. The fire eventually grew to about 4 acres by about 2:30 p.m.

Fire crews reported shortly after 8:55 p.m. Tuesday that the flames were 80% contained. By Wednesday morning, the fire was fully contained and firefighters remained in the area to monitor and douse hot spots.

No evacuations were ordered, although parts of Beacon Hill and Ridgeway Avenue were closed to make way for fire crews.

"I’m grateful our fire crews are on top of the fire and arrived quickly," Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley said.

According to Foley, the swift emergency response was made by land and air as Orange County firefighters flew in water from the lake at Laguna Niguel Regional Park to aid in killing the flames.

No homes were damaged and no injuries were reported, authorities said.

No further information was immediately available.