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DAMAGING WINDS, EXTREME FIRE DANGER RETURN TO SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Southern California is bracing for the return of intense winds and extreme fire danger, just days after a severe weather event brought strong gusts and fueled massive wildfires.
A strong high-pressure system is building over the Great Basin, forecasters said, which will bring a belt of strong, dry air into the region. Gusty easterly winds of 30-40 mph are expected, with some areas seeing gusts of up to 60 mph.
The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings for several counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, and Riverside, indicating that weather conditions are ideal for fires to spread rapidly. The winds will be so powerful that they could fan embers into new fires or reignite smoldering spot fires, posing a significant threat to public safety.
This is particularly concerning given the recent history of devastating wildfires in the region. The Woolsey Fire in 2018 destroyed thousands of homes and killed three people, while the Thomas Fire in 2017 burned more than 281,000 acres, the largest wildfire in state history.
Residents are being advised to follow any evacuation orders immediately, and to take steps to prepare their homes and properties for the potential threat. Firefighters are also preparing for increased activity, with aircraft, engine crews, and hand crews on standby.
The National Weather Service warned that the high winds will also make it hazardous for people to be outside, as loose objects could become projectiles and power lines could be knocked down, causing outages.
With the potential for destructive winds and extreme fire danger, public safety officials are urging residents to stay alert and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones.