Dangerous winds expected to hit Los Angeles next week could reignite the devastating fires that have been wreaking havoc on the US West Coast for almost two weeks, meteorologists said today, DPA reported.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Los Angeles is forecasting "destructive winds known as Santa Anas and extreme fire-hazardous weather" in the city area tomorrow and the day after tomorrow, with wind speeds reaching 130 km/h, BTA reports.
Over the weekend, firefighters reported progress in their efforts to contain the "Palisades" and "Eaton" fires amid falling temperatures and easing winds.
At least 27 people have died since the fires broke out on January 7, damaging and destroying more than 12,000 structures in various neighborhoods. Several people are still missing.
According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Eaton Fire near Pasadena is currently 73% contained, and the Palisades Fire on the western outskirts of Los Angeles is 49%.
Thousands of residents were allowed to return home after conditions improved over the weekend, but were urged to take precautions in case they had to evacuate again due to changing weather conditions.
The weather service has repeatedly warned that the wind that is fanning the fire could lead to new fires caused by sparks carried by it.
The strong winds are also making it impossible to fight the fires from the air.