Southern California residents continue to face heightened fire risks as officials extend the red flag warning through Thursday evening for Los Angeles and Ventura counties, though a welcome change may be approaching with rain forecasted for the weekend.
The National Weather Service predicts a 60-80% chance of precipitation starting Saturday, with most areas expected to receive up to one-third of an inch of rain. While the incoming moisture offers hope, meteorologists caution that it may not mark the end of this devastating fire season.
"The storm will bring a very beneficial wetting rain, but it will not end the fire season," said National Weather Service meteorologist Alex Tardy.
In preparation for the rainfall, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued an executive order Tuesday to expedite cleanup efforts in burn areas. City crews are working to remove vegetation, strengthen hillsides, install barriers, and reinforce roads to prevent potential mud and debris flows in fire-ravaged regions.
The ongoing fire threat remains a pressing concern as winds, which reached speeds of 60 mph in many areas Tuesday, are expected to persist through Thursday. Fire officials remain vigilant about potential new blazes while monitoring existing fires, including:
- The Palisades Fire (63% contained)
- The Eaton Fire (89% contained)
- The Clay Fire in Riverside (40% contained)
Southern California Edison has taken precautionary measures by cutting power to over 60,000 customers across five counties to prevent wind-damaged electrical equipment from sparking new fires. The utility is considering additional shutoffs affecting up to 160,000 more customers.
Local authorities continue to urge residents to:
- Review evacuation plans
- Prepare emergency kits
- Stay alert for new fires
- Report any fire sightings promptly
The devastating fires have already claimed 28 lives and destroyed more than 14,000 structures since January 7. As investigations into the fires' causes continue, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms has yet to release its findings.