California braces for dangerous winds and heat fuelling wildfire risk
Strong Santa Ana winds and high temperatures are expected to create critical fire weather conditions across south-west California this week.
At a glance
- Santa Ana winds expected to bring critical fire weather conditions to south-west California through Saturday
- High temperatures combined with strong winds could fuel rapid wildfire growth
- Communities already dealing with autumn heatwave and storm surge impacts
Communities across California are preparing for severe weather conditions expected to persist through the weekend. The National Weather Service has warned of moderate to strong Santa Ana winds bringing widespread strong gusts and critical fire weather conditions to much of south-west California.
The warning comes as Californians have already experienced a brutal autumn heatwave and coastal storm surge. Forecasters say the combination of strong winds and high temperatures could accelerate wildfire growth over the coming days.
Why it matters
California faces recurring seasonal wildfire threats that can cause significant destruction and displacement. Extreme weather conditions increase the speed and intensity of fires.
Original reporting
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