Strong winds threaten firefighters’ progress: NPR

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Forecasters are warning of extreme fire danger in Los Angeles, where firefighters are still working to contain multiple fires that have ravaged parts of the county over the past week.

The National Weather Service (NWS) expects winds to peak between 4 a.m. Tuesday and noon Wednesday, with gusts up to 60 and 70 miles per hour in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

Although generally weaker than last week’s, these upcoming strong winds could down trees, knock out power, put drivers in danger, and, most alarmingly, fuel new and existing fires in the region. The NWS warns that they could cause a “proliferation of explosive fires.”

“Stay aware of your surroundings. Be prepared to evacuate. Avoid anything that could start a fire,” it says.

There are four active fires as of Tuesday morning, according to Cal Fire: The Palisades and Eaton fires have collectively burned 37,830 acres since last Tuesday and are 14% and 33% contained, respectively.

The Hurst Fire, which also broke out last Tuesday, is 97% contained after burning nearly 800 acres. The Auto Fire has burned about 56 acres in neighboring Ventura County since it broke out Monday evening. Firefighters stopped its progress, but have yet to contain anything.

“In the first 11 days of the year, more than 40,300 acres were burned by 105 fires,” Deputy State Fire Marshal Brice Bennett said over the weekend. “With approximately 12,000 structures destroyed, the Eaton and Palisades Fire is likely the second and fourth most destructive fires in California history.”

The fires have subjected hundreds of thousands of residents to evacuation orders and warnings, forcing many to flee their homes and risking the lives of those left behind. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner is investigating a total of 24 fire-related deaths Monday afternoon, 16 from the Eaton fire and eight from the Palisades fire.

The causes of the four active fires are currently under investigation.

Authorities warn of extreme fire risk and possible power outages

Much of Southwest California is under red flag warnings through Wednesday, meaning there is a high risk of rapid fire growth if a fire breaks out.

Two smaller areas within LA and Ventura counties are considered to be in “a particularly dangerous situation” (PDS), the rarest and most extreme red flag warning level. Historically, it preceded particularly destructive fires, including the Palisades and Eaton fires.

“PDS Red Flag Warnings are for extreme fire scenarios,” the NWS tweeted. “In other words, this setup is as bad as it gets.”

Officials are warning residents to monitor emergency alerts and take precautions to avoid starting fires. These include not using lawn mowers on dry vegetation, making sure trailer chains are not dragging on the ground, and never throwing cigarettes or matches out of a vehicle .

The county itself may also take additional steps. The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power said Monday that local fire officials may ask it to “preventatively de-energize power lines” in certain areas during the red flag warning is in force.

It asks customers in high-risk areas to prepare for possible extended outages, potentially longer than 48 hours, by keeping their phones charged and a portable charger, flashlight and extra batteries nearby.

How to help and stay safe

Resources to help you stay safe:

➡️ With fire risk still high, authorities implore you to follow evacuation orders

➡️ What to do – and not to do – when returning home from a fire evacuation

➡️ Is there smoke in your house? Here’s how to make an air purifier from a box fan

➡️Trying to stay safe during a wildfire? There is an app that can help you

Ways to support response and recovery:

➡️ Do you want to help victims of a fire? Here’s what experts say does the most good and where to look for volunteers

➡️ Wildfire Donations and Volunteering: How and Where to Help

➡️ Share: Here are the steps fire victims should take to file an insurance claim.

The California Newsroom is tracking severe weather across the region. Click to LAist cover for the last one.