Authorities have issued an urgent red flag warning for Southern California as life-threatening winds exacerbate the danger posed by ongoing wildfires. Los Angeles is currently facing the devastating effects of multiple fires, prompting a critical alert from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection to residents across the region.
As winds intensify, escalating the already hazardous conditions, the department issued the warning at 2:20 PM local time (10:20 PM GMT), urging residents to be prepared for a rapid escalation.
CAL Fire's statement highlighted that "Southern California is facing critical fire weather through Wednesday," with life-threatening winds and dangerously low humidity expected throughout the region, from Ventura to San Diego. These conditions are increasing the risk of fast-moving fires, and the winds are expected to worsen fire activity.
The agency provided safety guidelines to mitigate the impact of the fires, including refraining from mowing or trimming dry grass during windy days, avoiding parking on dry grass, ensuring campfires are properly extinguished, and reporting suspicious activities that could indicate arson.
CAL Fire emphasized that state resources, reinforced by support from other states and international aid, are on standby to tackle the fires and safeguard lives and property.
So far, the California wildfires have claimed 16 lives, with another 16 individuals missing. Over 10,000 homes have been destroyed, displacing numerous residents as they flee from the advancing flames.
With conditions expected to worsen, LA Fire Department Chief Crowley reassured residents that her team is "ready" to handle the added challenge of the incoming winds. She warned that stronger winds are approaching "very, very quickly" and stressed the need for cooperation, urging residents to evacuate promptly, avoid roads, and stay clear of affected areas. "We need your help as much as you need ours," she said on Sunday.
California Fire Director Joe Tyler added to the urgency, noting that winds are intensifying across Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego. He urged residents to stay alert and follow evacuation orders. "We all need to be prepared," he stated, emphasizing the critical importance of obeying evacuation commands from firefighters and law enforcement officers.
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