LOS ANGELES — Firefighters successfully contained multiple brush fires that ignited in Southern California on Monday, as dry and windy conditions heightened the wildfire risk. These extreme weather conditions have led to concerns about new wildfires, particularly given the two major fires that have been burning in the Los Angeles area for the past two weeks.
Forecasts suggest wind gusts could reach up to 70 mph along coastal areas and even 100 mph in mountainous regions and foothills, with these hazardous fire conditions expected to persist through Tuesday.
The National Weather Service issued warnings about a “particularly dangerous situation” for regions in Los Angeles, Ventura, and San Diego counties, highlighting low humidity levels and damaging Santa Ana winds that could contribute to fire outbreaks.
“Current conditions could facilitate the rapid growth of fires if any should start,” explained Andrew Rorke, a meteorologist in Oxnard.
On Monday afternoon, firefighters were able to quickly control a small brush fire that flared up near the iconic Griffith Observatory. Law enforcement apprehended a suspect believed to be responsible for igniting this fire, as reported by LAPD spokesperson David Cuellar. Crews also extinguished another brush fire near Interstate 405 in Granada Hills, which briefly shut down the northbound lanes.
In San Diego County, firefighters tackled a separate blaze that erupted in Poway later in the afternoon, effectively halting its further spread.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, visited Los Angeles after attending President Donald Trump’s inauguration. The couple met with firefighters, volunteers, and those affected by the Eaton Fire in Altadena. “We wanted to come out and show our gratitude to the firefighters and community, reminding everyone that we are all in this together,” Harris remarked, adding that their home in Pacific Palisades remained safe.
Trump, who previously criticized wildfire response efforts in his inaugural speech, is scheduled to visit Los Angeles on Friday.
California Governor Gavin Newsom emphasized that the damage caused by the wildfires highlights the necessity for collaboration between state and federal governments. “I look forward to President Trump’s visit and the federal government’s assistance to help our fellow Americans recover and rebuild,” Newsom stated.
Forecasts indicate a slight chance of rain for the upcoming weekend in the Los Angeles area, but gusty winds are expected to make a return on Thursday, according to Rorke.
Officials cautioned residents against mowing their lawns or igniting fires that could spiral out of control. They also encouraged community members to review their evacuation strategies, prepare emergency kits, and stay vigilant for any new fires, reporting them immediately.
David Acuna of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection expressed that the Palisades and Eaton fires remain the primary concern. “We need to avoid actions that could trigger new fires, allowing us to manage the existing situations,” he advised.
With low humidity, extremely dry vegetation, and strong Santa Ana winds, firefighters continue to combat the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have caused significant destruction since igniting amid high winds on January 7. Currently, the Palisades fire is reported as 59% contained, while the Eaton fire is 87% contained.
Evacuation orders for Pacific Palisades were partially lifted on Monday, allowing only residents to return after verifying their residency at checkpoints. Over the weekend, authorities reported two men impersonating firefighters were apprehended as they attempted to enter an evacuation zone linked to the Palisades Fire.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass stressed the city’s preparedness for potential new fires, cautioning that strong winds could carry ash from existing blazes across the region. She encouraged residents to visit the city’s official website to learn how to protect themselves from hazardous air conditions during Santa Ana winds.
Fire agencies, including Cal Fire and local departments, have strategically positioned firefighting equipment and personnel throughout the area to respond swiftly to any new incidents. Acuna noted the availability of additional fire crews in Kern and Riverside counties to aid in these efforts.
Los Angeles fire officials confirmed that all available engines are prepared, with 30 stationed in high-risk areas. Additionally, the agency instructed about 1,000 firefighters on duty to extend their shifts for enhanced readiness in case of new fire outbreaks. “This pre-deployment strategy is both thoughtful and strategic,” commented Crowley.
