As winds across the Southern California area are calmer than their peak and firefighters are making progress, the threat to the fire-weary region remains with Santa Ana winds expected to continue in the coming days.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized the need for high alertness, with red flag warnings in effect for much of the foothills and mountainous areas of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. These warnings indicate the possibility of wind gusts reaching up to 100 mph, heightening the risk of fire.
Fire weather watches are already in effect for various regions, and the extended Santa Ana Wind event may persist until Thursday. The region faces an elevated risk of wildfires due to a severe drought, with nearly all of Southern California affected.
Gov. Gavin Newsom has mobilized significant resources to Southern California, including over 130 fire engines, water tenders, and aircraft. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has surged personnel to respond to the heightened fire risk.
Despite progress in containing fires like the Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire, the risk remains high due to strong winds and dry conditions. Firefighting aircraft may be limited in their operations during such conditions.
Evacuation orders have been lifted in some areas, but many residents are still waiting to return to assess damage and salvage belongings. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided substantial aid to wildfire survivors.
Efforts are being made to enhance fire prevention measures, including red-flag parking restrictions in Pasadena and potential power cuts by SoCal Edison in high-risk fire areas.
Celebrities are also joining in fire relief efforts, with the FireAid benefit concert set to raise funds for rebuilding wildfire-devastated communities.
Despite challenges, regional and state firefighting partners are working diligently to combat the wildfires and protect communities in Southern California.
