California is facing heightened wildfire risks as powerful winds and low humidity create conditions conducive to rapid fire spread.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a rare "particularly dangerous situation" warning, highlighting conditions that could fuel "extreme and life-threatening" wildfires, especially in Southern California.
Gusts are expected to reach 50 to 100 mph, with humidity levels dropping to 8 percent.
Red flag warnings cover a wide swath of California, from Los Angeles County to Northern California, where similar gusts are anticipated.
'Life-Threatening' Fire Risk Amid Strong Winds
Firefighters in Los Angeles County responded quickly to a new fire along the Pacific Coast Highway near Malibu, dubbed the Broad Fire, which had already consumed approximately 40 acres by early Wednesday.
Los Angeles County Fire Department crews, supported by water-dropping helicopters, worked to contain the flames as erratic winds threatened nearby properties. Two structures were reported damaged, and authorities advised residents to shelter in place.
The NWS office in Los Angeles amended its red flag warning for increased fire danger with the "particularly dangerous situation" label.
Santa Ana and Diablo winds, known for their role in driving past wildfires, are expected to create similar hazards in the region through Thursday,
"Those in canyon, mountain, and foothill communities should be ready to evacuate at a moment's notice," the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management said on X (formerly Twitter).
PG&E, SoCal Edison Cut Power to Fire Zones
Evacuation orders are in place in the Ventura County city of Santa Paula because of the Mountain Fire northwest of Los Angeles. At least 140 firefighters are at the scene, which is near the 7900 block of Balcom Canyon Road and Bradley Road.
"There are a number of homes that have been impacted by fire. It's a rapidly moving fire," said Andrew Dowd, a Ventura County Fire Department spokesperson.
The fire risk has prompted utility companies like Southern California Edison and Pacific Gas & Electric to take preventive measures, with planned power shutoffs affecting thousands of residents.
Southern California Edison preemptively cut power to over 46,000 customers in high-risk areas, including more than 12,000 in Los Angeles County alone.
"Power shutoffs are being considered for up to 200,000 customers to reduce wildfire risks," the company said on its website. Pacific Gas & Electric similarly shut off power for more than 20,000 Northern California residents as winds heightened the risk of electrical equipment sparking new fires.
Wildfire Advice From American Red Cross
The American Red Cross has issued wildfire safety guidelines in response to what it has labeled as an "extremely critical wildfire risk."
According to Red Cross data, California alone has already seen nearly 7,300 fires this year, scorching over a million acres.
The Red Cross stressed the importance of preplanning evacuation routes and maintaining readiness to leave at a moment's notice.
"It is crucial that those in at-risk areas follow the advice of local authorities and evacuate immediately if directed," said a message on the Red Cross website.
Other tips include:
- Know where you will go, how you will get there and where you will stay. Plan well in advance if you'll need help leaving. Or use public transportation.
- If you have a car, make sure the gas tank is full and park it facing the direction of your evacuation route.
- Keep your pets in one room so you can find them if you need to evacuate quickly.
- Monitor the local weather and fires near you. Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government. Stay up to date on evacuation routes and road closures that could affect your plans.
- If you think you are in danger, leave immediately. You might not get an official notice to evacuate.
The Red Cross also encourages Californians to download its Emergency app for up-to-the-minute wildfire alerts and shelter information.
This article includes reporting from the Associated Press.
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