Not out of the Woods Yet: Extreme Red Flag Warnings are Back in Effect for L.A. Area
High-Risk Fire Conditions Expected to Last Through Midday
The most extreme level of a red flag fire warning, a “particularly dangerous situation,” returned to parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties Wednesday morning, heightening concerns about the potential for new fires to start.
Winds Expected to Reach 45-55 mph
The period of highest risk was expected to begin just before sunrise through midday. Mountain wind gusts were expected to rise to 45 mph to 55 mph, with local gusts up to 60 mph, according to the National Weather Service office in Oxnard. Forecasters expect Wednesday will be noticeably windier than Tuesday.
Ventura County at Particular Risk
Ventura County is expected to be at particular risk if a fire sparks. The northern Ventura County mountains may get stronger winds than typically seen during a Santa Ana wind event. Gusts reached as high as 54 mph — in the Santa Susana Mountains — Wednesday morning.
“The Danger Has Not Yet Passed”
“The danger has not yet passed,” Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley said during a news conference Wednesday. “So please prioritize your safety.”
Firefighters Continue to Focus on Hot Spots
Winds on Tuesday ended up being calmer than forecasters had anticipated — good news for firefighters. In the past several days, crews have stopped the growth of the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires and have rushed to boost containment ahead of the anticipated winds.
Containment and Hot Spots
Firefighters continue to focus on hot spots to reduce the risk that winds will pick up smoldering embers and firebrands and carry them into new areas. The Palisades fire has burned more than 23,700 acres and was 19% contained as of Wednesday morning up from 17% a day earlier. Containment is a reference to how much of the fire’s edge, or perimeter, has been surrounded to the extent firefighters believe they can stop the fire from expanding.
Red Flag Fire Warning in Effect
A “particularly dangerous situation” signifies the most extreme level of a red flag fire warning, although officials note that Wednesday’s winds will not be as severe as the historic windstorms that fueled the fires last week. The warning began at 3 a.m. Wednesday for portions of the San Fernando Valley and Ventura County, including Northridge, Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, Camarillo and Fillmore and was expected to last through 3 p.m.
Public Safety Power Shutoffs Implemented
Southern California Edison implemented a public safety power shutoff for more than 84,000 customers across its service area Wednesday amid the high wind warning. Such shutoffs are aimed at mitigating threats, often in areas where the utility’s equipment could be at high risk of sparking a wildfire.
Fire Weather Conditions Expected to Improve
Fire weather conditions are expected to improve starting Wednesday night through Saturday. But starting around Monday, there is a moderate risk for another round of red flag warnings.
Region Experiencing Prolonged Dry Spell
The region is experiencing a painful dry spell that is among the driest starts to a winter on record, a major reason the fire risk is so high. There are still no significant chances of rain through Jan. 25, forecasters say.
Conclusion
The extreme red flag warnings in effect for the L.A. area highlight the ongoing fire danger and the need for caution. With winds expected to reach 45-55 mph and dry conditions persisting, the risk of new fires starting remains high. It is crucial for residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
FAQs
Q: What is a red flag fire warning?
A: A red flag fire warning is a forecast issued by the National Weather Service when weather conditions are expected to be extremely hazardous for fire-prone areas.
Q: What are the most extreme levels of a red flag fire warning?
A: The most extreme levels of a red flag fire warning are a “red flag warning” and a “particularly dangerous situation.”
Q: What are the risks associated with a red flag fire warning?
A: The risks associated with a red flag fire warning include an increased risk of new fires starting, rapid fire spread, and difficult firefighting conditions.
Q: What can I do to stay safe during a red flag fire warning?
A: To stay safe during a red flag fire warning, stay informed about local fire danger ratings, follow evacuation orders, and take necessary precautions to prevent accidental ignition of fires.
