S. California, Jan 07, (V7N) – Southern California faces an increased wildfire threat this week as strong Santa Ana winds and low humidity levels create dangerous conditions, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
 
The NWS has issued a Fire Weather Watch and a Red Flag Warning for most of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, starting Tuesday and lasting through Thursday evening. Ventura County remains under a Fire Weather Watch through Friday evening.
 
Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 80 mph, posing an "extreme" wildfire risk, the NWS warned. These conditions are likely to affect wide areas of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, including Malibu, which is still recovering from last month’s devastating Franklin Fire.
 
The Franklin Fire burned over 4,000 acres, destroyed homes, and forced residents to evacuate. It was one of more than 8,000 wildfires that swept through California in 2024, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
 
Residents in the affected areas are urged to remain vigilant, secure loose outdoor items, and avoid activities that could spark fires. Firefighters and emergency crews are on high alert to respond to potential outbreaks.
 
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