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The Santa Ana winds are expected to keep the fire threat high in Los Angeles and Ventura Counties until Wednesday evening (January 15). The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning due to the combination of strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures, which create critical fire conditions. Wind gusts are predicted to reach 30 to 50 mph, with 50 to 75 mph gusts in wind-prone areas.
Firefighters are currently battling multiple fires in the region, including the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have already claimed 24 lives and destroyed over 10,000 structures. LA City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley described the fires as "one of the most challenging natural events in the history of this city" and urged residents to stay informed and be ready to evacuate. Evacuation orders have already affected over 153,000 people, with another 166,000 under evacuation warnings.
The National Weather Service issued a "particularly dangerous situation" warning, emphasizing the extreme fire weather and wind scenario. Fire crews have reinforced control lines, cleared dry brush, and pre-positioned resources to combat potential new fires. LA County Fire Battalion Chief Christian Litz explained that preparations include strategically dropping retardant around fire perimeters in case high winds ground firefighting aircraft, according to the LA Times.