According to the reports on Wednesday (15 January), Southern California is battling the devastating Palisades and Eaton fires, which have been burning for over a week, causing widespread destruction and claiming at least 25 lives. The situation has worsened as strong Santa Ana winds sweep through the region, increasing the risk of new fire outbreaks. Millions of residents have been issued fire warnings, highlighting the severity of the crisis.
The winds, which reached speeds of up to 110 km/h, have prompted a red flag warning across Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties. Authorities have cautioned that the dry vegetation and intense gusts create conditions for fires to grow rapidly. The National Weather Service labeled parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties as “particularly dangerous situations.”
Power outages have affected 90,000 households as utilities shut down service lines to prevent sparks that could ignite new fires. Residents have been urged to stay prepared for evacuation and avoid activities that could trigger fires. Fire chief Kristin Crowley emphasized the destructive potential of the winds, describing them as life-threatening and widespread.
The National Weather Service and meteorologists continue to warn of the critical fire risks posed by the dry Santa Ana winds. With vegetation parched and ready to ignite, experts stress the need for heightened vigilance. Emergency services are working tirelessly to contain the fires and prevent further loss of life and property.
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