Wildfires Strike Again: LA Faces New Blazes Amid Santa Ana Winds

Santa Ana winds are wreaking havoc in Southern California, fanning new wildfires and threatening the progress made in containing previous ones. These powerful winds, with gusts reaching over 100 mph, have sparked fresh concerns about more fires breaking out. Although the 80-acre Lilac Fire is now 10% contained, the Pala Fire, which scorched 17 acres, has been extinguished, and evacuation orders have been lifted. In Los Angeles, a small wildfire near the Griffith Observatory was quickly put out on Monday, with no structures damaged. The Palisades Fire, which has burned 23, 713 acres, is 63% contained, and LA’s Eaton Fire, covering 14, 021 acres, is 89% contained. Despite these efforts, the ongoing extreme winds and dry conditions keep fire risks high. A windblown dust and ash advisory is in effect through Tuesday at 10 p. m. PT to warn of potential air quality issues. Firefighters across the region are on high alert. Fire engines and firefighting aircraft are pre-positioned, and emergency teams are strategically deployed. The Los Angeles Police Department has concluded its search for missing persons in the Palisades Fire area and is setting up safe zones for residents. While rain is predicted for the weekend, it poses a mixed blessing. The region is facing severe drought, but rain could exacerbate the risk of mudslides in burn areas. Mayor Karen Bass has issued an executive order to prepare for any negative impacts. Local leaders are also developing plans to mitigate waste and stabilize slopes. Former Vice President Kamala Harris visited Los Angeles on Monday, distributing food to community members affected by the fires. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump is set to visit California on Friday to assess the wildfire damage.