Thousands return home in Southern California after firefighters gain ground on the Norte Fire that damaged or destroyed six homes

Most evacuation orders were lifted on Saturday evening, with just one street in San Clemente still off limits. The Norte Fire broke out on Friday in San Clemente, and hot Santa Ana winds carried it into San Juan Capistrano, forcing about 16,000 residents to flee. On Saturday it was only 5% contained across just under a square mile. Hundreds of firefighters battled through the night in the Orange County hills.

Some of the lost hillside homes had sweeping ocean views.

Across a scorched hill frequented by hikers, an American flag was the sole thing left standing.

Resident Ephraim Taylor grabbed a garden hose as flames spread through his neighbourhood.