Powerful Winds and Fire Threaten Southern California Again, Major Danger Could Loom if Rain Doesn't Arrive

Powerful Winds and Fire Threaten Southern California Again, Major Danger Could Loom if Rain Doesn't Arrive

Los Angeles (AP) — Dry Southern California could face even more dangerous winds on Wednesday, with some much-needed rain forecasted for this weekend, which may help subdue another round of devastating fires. However, even light rain could pose new challenges, such as the destruction of toxic ash debris.

Los Angeles officials were preparing for this possibility as some residents were allowed to return to areas near the Pacific Ocean and Altadena, while firefighters quickly contained a few small fires.

Mayor Karen Bass issued an executive order on Tuesday aimed at reducing the environmental impacts of the fires and accelerating the cleanup of burned areas. She directed crews to remove plants, reinforce foothills, set up barriers, and strengthen roads in preparation for potential rain over the weekend, which could trigger mud and debris flows. "This will help prevent further damage to fire-affected areas and protect our water reservoirs, beaches, and oceans from toxic debris," Bass said at a press conference.

Los Angeles County supervisors also approved an emergency measure to set up flood control systems and accelerate sandbag placement in the fire-affected areas.

Ryan Kittel, a weather expert from the Los Angeles National Weather Service, stated that rain chances in Southern California could be as high as 60% to 80% starting Saturday, but most areas may only see up to 0.8 cm (about a third of an inch) of rain. However, if a single storm brings one inch (2.5 cm) of rain, it could be dangerous as debris flows may form on burned hills.

While the winds subsided somewhat on Tuesday afternoon, stronger winds are forecasted for the next two days. A "Red Flag" warning for fires has been extended in Los Angeles and Ventura counties until 8 p.m. Thursday.

David Acuna, spokesperson for California Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), said, "Our concern is the next fire, the next flare-up that will spark another wildfire." Additionally, two major fires, the Pacific Ocean and Eaton fires, are at risk of breaching their containment lines, though firefighters are monitoring the situation.

Southern California Edison also cut power to 60,000 customers to prevent electrical equipment from sparking fires due to high winds, later restoring power to some customers.

Authorities have urged residents to review their evacuation plans, keep emergency kits ready, and stay alert for fires, reporting them quickly.

Amid the fire risk and strong winds, California state authorities are taking additional measures to help control the fires, with many families at risk of losing lives and resources due to these deadly fires.