LOS ANGELES — The dry conditions in Southern California are expected to worsen with increased winds on Wednesday, but the forecast for this weekend hints at much-needed rain that may lessen the chances of severe wildfires. However, even the smallest amount may introduce new challenges, such as runoff containing harmful ash.
Los Angeles officials are taking precautions and bracing for this possibility, as some residents in the devastated areas of Pacific Palisades and Altadena are being granted limited access to return home while firefighters manage smaller blazes that have recently ignited.
To address the potential environmental hazards stemming from fire-related pollutants, Mayor Karen Bass has enacted an executive order to enhance cleanup efforts in the areas impacted by the fires. This includes directives for crews to eliminate hazardous vegetation, reinforce hillsides, set up barriers, and strengthen roadways in preparation for the anticipated weekend precipitation. “This initiative aims to prevent further harm to areas already devastated by fire and safeguard our watershed, beaches, and ocean from toxic runoff,” Bass shared during a press conference.
Los Angeles County supervisors have also approved an emergency motion focused on implementing flood control measures and expediting the removal of debris from these affected regions.
Meteorologist Ryan Kittell from the National Weather Service in Los Angeles predicts a 60% to 80% likelihood of light rain arriving in Southern California starting Saturday, with expectations that most locations may see less than a third of an inch (0.8 cm). Nonetheless, localized thunderstorms could potentially dump up to an inch (2.5 cm) of rain, creating a worst-case scenario that might trigger debris flows on the already scorched terrain.
Kittell emphasized the importance of preparation, noting that even if rain doesn’t materialize this time, it could serve as a practice run for communities facing ongoing threats in months or years to come.
The town of Montecito, situated 80 miles (130 kilometers) north of Los Angeles, was devastated by mudslides in 2018 after a heavy downpour struck areas weakened by a significant wildfire, resulting in 23 fatalities and widespread damage to homes.
On Tuesday afternoon, winds subsided after peaking at speeds of 60 mph (96 kph) across various areas, but meteorologists anticipate that gusty conditions will reemerge in the following days. Red flag warnings highlighting critical fire risks have been extended until 8 p.m. Thursday for both LA and Ventura counties.
“Our primary concern is the possibility of the next fire, as well as the sparks that can lead to new wildfires,” cautioned David Acuna, a spokesperson for the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, known as Cal Fire. An additional focus lies on the major blazes—the Palisades and Eaton fires—whose containment lines are under scrutiny as firefighters continue to monitor for any hotspots.
Officials reported that firefighting efforts have been effective, with fire engines and water-dropping aircraft swiftly extinguishing several small fires in LA and San Diego counties. Evacuation orders for the Friars Fire near a San Diego mall have been lifted, and there has been a partial lifting for the Lilac Fire that damaged dry brush and threatened some structures. Nearby, the Pala Fire has been fully contained.
In a proactive measure to curtail fire risks associated with strong winds, Southern California Edison temporarily cut power to over 60,000 customers across five counties due to fears that wind damage could lead to new fires. Electricity has since been restored to some, though the utility is considering further precautionary outages affecting an additional 160,000 customers.
Residents are being advised to review their evacuation plans, assemble emergency supplies, and remain vigilant for potential fires, reporting any sightings promptly.
Mayor Bass has also alerted residents about the potential for toxic ash to spread in the windy conditions, urging Angelenos to consult the city’s online resources for guidance on protecting themselves against hazardous air during the latest Santa Ana wind event.
The combination of low humidity, parched vegetation, and strong winds continues to challenge firefighters combating the Palisades and Eaton fires, which are responsible for at least 28 fatalities and the destruction of over 14,000 structures since January 7. The Palisades Fire has reached 63% containment, while the Eaton Fire is at 89%.
An investigation by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms is underway to determine the causes of these blazes, although no findings have been disclosed yet. Multiple lawsuits have been initiated by individuals who lost their homes in the Eaton Fire, with claims suggesting that equipment from Southern California Edison sparked the flames. A judge overseeing one of these cases has mandated the utility to provide data from circuits in the area where the fire originated.
President Donald Trump, who criticized the wildfire response during his inaugural address on Monday, has announced plans to visit Los Angeles on Friday.
