Orange County brush fire: At least 13 homes on fire as Laguna Niguel brush fire grows in size, approaches more residential areas

LAGUNA NIGUEL, Calif. (KABC) — Several homes overlooking the ocean in Laguna Niguel are now engulfed in flames as a fast-moving brush fire is spreading rapidly amid strong winds.

The fire broke out Wednesday afternoon between Laguna Niguel and Laguna Beach near a water treatment plant, according to the Orange County Fire Authority, and quickly erupted in size.

It has since grown to 30 acres as of 5 p.m., according to authorities.

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The Laguna Beach Police Department has issued voluntary evacuations for residents living in the Balboa Nyes/Portafina neighborhood.

Residents and their pets are asked to make preparations should an immediate evacuation order is issued.

AIR7 HD cameras captured at least 13 homes on fire in a community near Coronado Pointe.

There were no immediate reports of injuries.

Several water-dropping helicopters have been helping fight the flames, and crews in fixed-wing aircraft have also been assisting.

According to the city of Aliso Viejo, the Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park is now shut down.

This is a developing story. This article will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.