California is getting ready for another wave of strong winds, which will lead to lower humidity levels and increase the likelihood of wildfires across much of the state.

This marks the second time in a three-week period that a “diablo wind,” known for its hot and dry gusts typical of autumn, is anticipated to begin later in the evening throughout Northern California.

Meteorologists have issued red flag warnings indicating high fire danger from the central coast through the San Francisco Bay Area and into northern counties, effective until Thursday.

The National Weather Service predicts sustained winds of 25 mph (40 kph) in many areas, with gusts possibly exceeding 55 mph (88.5 kph) in elevated regions.

During these diablo winds, which usually occur in the fall, the air becomes extremely dry, causing humidity levels to drop significantly. This dryness prepares vegetation to ignite more easily. The term “diablo,” which translates to “devil” in Spanish, is informally used to describe this wind phenomenon that blows from the inland areas toward the coast as high pressure builds across the western region.

Pacific Gas & Electric Company has announced that it stands ready to cut power to a limited number of customers beginning late Tuesday in areas that are susceptible to strong wind gusts potentially damaging power infrastructure and igniting fires.

Additionally, power outages could also be implemented in Southern California, where the Santa Ana winds—another infamous weather pattern—are forecast to strengthen on Wednesday and Thursday.

The winds in the greater Los Angeles area are expected to be stronger than those in northern regions, with gusts potentially reaching 80 mph (129 kph) and possibly even higher in mountainous zones, according to the National Weather Service. A high wind warning has been put in place starting early Wednesday for wide areas of LA and Ventura counties.