High winds have brought about a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” red flag warning, according to weather forecasters, and extreme fire weather is still present in the Southern California region.
More wind is anticipated after a week of devastating wildfires that overtaxed local firefighting resources and burned thousands of structures.
Much of Ventura and Los Angeles counties are under an APDS red flag warning through Wednesday at noon. Some of the strongest gusts may occur in places like the Santa Clarita Valley, Malibu Coast, Ventura County valleys, San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, and the 118/210 corridors.
Many of the same locations will continue to be under a standard red flag warning until Wednesday at 6 p.m. Low humidity levels with damaged northeast to east winds will make fires more likely.
“Until we get that much-needed rain, which we’re not getting right now in Southern California,” CBS News Los Angeles Meteorologist Amber Lee stated, “we are pretty much going to be under red flag warnings and extreme fire danger.”
According to the NWS, moderate to high gusts of 55 to 70 mph are expected during this traditional Santa Ana wind storm.
“While dangerous PDS red flag fire weather conditions are likely with this event early Tuesday morning into Wednesday morning, this wind event is not expected to be as strong and destructive as last week’s windstorm,” the National Weather Service stated.
A few small brush fires, like the Auto Fire in Ventura County, started throughout the night. The Ventura County Fire Department reports that the fire has scorched 56 acres and that there is no containment in place. Gusts averaging 20 to 30 mph propelled the flames.
Ground crews receiving fire support were promptly aided by four water-dropping planes.
According to Lee, substantially lower temperatures should approach as the week goes on.
Residents living close to wildlands are advised by weather officials to be alert in case of a fire and to prepare to leave.
The NWS provides inhabitants with advice:
Rapid reaction teams are stationed throughout Southern California in high-complexity locations, according to Los Angeles City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley.
Following the Palisades and Eaton fires, which were among the most devastating in the state and claimed 24 lives, local and state authorities expanded their workforces.