As attempts to confine the Eaton and Palisades fires continue, Southern California is preparing for a strong Santa Ana wind storm that poses a serious risk of fire.
A Particularly Dangerous Situation warning has been issued by the National Weather Service because severe wind gusts of up to 100 mph are possible in some locations. Monday afternoon will see the beginning of peak winds, which will get stronger during the evening.
Firefighters have been positioned by state and municipal officials and are prepared to respond in the event that flames start.
Low humidity and dry temperatures are still a worry two weeks after the Eaton and Palisades fires broke out.
A “life-threatening and destructive” windstorm swiftly spread the Palisades Fire, which started on January 7 in the Pacific Palisades region. New fire spots were ignited by embers carried by strong Santa Ana winds. The Eaton Fire broke out a few hours later in the northeastern part of the county, close to Pasadena and Altadena.
Structures were engulfed in flames from both incidents, causing occupants to evacuate. Thousands of households were impacted by the swiftly issued obligatory evacuation orders by officials.
Human remains have been discovered in fire zone rubble by search and rescue teams. There have been 27 verified deaths linked to the fires, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. Whether or not all of the deaths were caused by the fires is unknown.
With the majority of evacuation orders modified to warnings, repopulation has started in response to the Palisades and Eaton fires.
Eaton Fire
As of Monday morning, the Eaton Fire is 87% controlled and has burned 14,021 acres. The reduced wind activity made it possible for ground and air operations to keep an eye on and put out hot patches.
17 fire-related deaths have been confirmed by the LA County Medical Examiner.
Palisades Fire
As of Monday morning, 59% of the 23,713-acre fire has been contained. Firefighters have halted expansion and observed little fire activity in recent weeks.
The LA County Medical Examiner has confirmed that the fire is responsible for at least ten deaths.