Washington: Strong winds returned to Southern California on Tuesday, escalating wildfire risks as firefighters battled ongoing blazes in dry conditions. Two major fires in the Los Angeles area continued to burn into their third week, international media reported.
The National Weather Service warned of gusts reaching up to 70 mph (113 kph) along the coast and up to 100 mph (160 kph) in mountain regions, with low humidity creating a “particularly dangerous situation” in Los Angeles, Ventura, and San Diego counties. Meteorologist Andrew Rorke cautioned that the conditions could lead to rapid fire spread if new fires ignite.
Firefighters tackled multiple small fires across San Diego County, including the Lilac Fire, which scorched 80 acres and threatened structures in Bonsall. Meanwhile, the Pala Fire’s forward progress was halted.
On Monday, Los Angeles crews quickly extinguished a brush fire near Griffith Observatory and another along Interstate 405 in Granada Hills. A man suspected of starting the Griffith fire was taken into custody.
Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff visited Los Angeles to meet with firefighters and victims of the Eaton Fire. Harris expressed gratitude to the community and firefighters while confirming her Pacific Palisades home remained unharmed.
Governor Gavin Newsom emphasised the need for state and federal collaboration, welcoming an upcoming visit from former President Donald Trump to assess the wildfire response.
The Palisades and Eaton fires, which began on January 7, have claimed 27 lives and destroyed over 14,000 structures. Containment efforts continue, with the Palisades fire at 61% and the Eaton fire at 87% as of Tuesday.
